The City of Seattle has launched a restoration project to renew and preserve 11 Pan-African flag crosswalks in the Central District, which have long served as powerful symbols of Black history, culture, and community presence.
This initiative addresses recent community concerns that markings on the crosswalks signaled a removal of the neighborhood’s Black identity, instead affirming their significance as iconic landmarks born from a movement to safeguard Black identity and ownership amidst rapid displacement.
The project encompasses repairs, cleaning, and repainting to ensure these historic symbols remain visible for years to come.
Wyking Garrett, President and CEO of the Africatown Community Land Trust, shares more on the Seattle Medium’s Rhythm & News Podcast.
Interview by Chris B. Bennett.
