The Washington State Black Legacy Institute (WSBLI) celebrated its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the community. The event, held on February 1st, also recognized as Washington State Black Legacy Institute Day, drew a crowd of supporters, partners, and community members. Despite a slight timing issue due to the Pacific Northwest’s somewhat unpredictable weather (it snowed during the event), the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation for the Institute's future.

Kateesha Atterberry, President and CEO of WSBLI, expressed her gratitude and vision, stating, “We're standing on the shoulders of great men and women who have paved the way before us...We are and were and still will be pioneers in American history. We will continue to break ground.”. She also thanked key partners including the City of Seattle, the Equal Development Initiative, the Washington Community Reinvestment Association, and the Department of Commerce.... Atterberry emphasized the importance of legacy and continuing to build upon the work of those who came before, regardless of current challenges. She also thanked her team at Urban Black, a mission-based real estate development company she founded, and her family for their support.

The Institute is located at 2656 42nd Ave SW in the former Admiral Sanctuary building. It was purchased last October and has been undergoing some restoration and refitting prior to the opening.

The roots of the Institute came from the Seattle Griot Project and those associated with the Institute want it to be an interactive place of historic preservation. 

Their website states:

The definition “Griot” has been known to be: A West African historian, storyteller, praise singer, poet, or musician. The Griot is a repository of oral tradition and is often seen as a leader due to their position as an advisor to royal personages.

Seattle City Council Member Rob Saka, highlighted the significance of the Institute in the context of current national and international events. He proclaimed, "Amid all the stuff going on nationally and internationally... in the city of Seattle, in the city of Seattle government, we will continue to honor and celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion.".... Saka further emphasized, "Black history is American history," and lauded the institute as a leader in promoting a safe, equitable, inclusive, and diverse city. He presented the official proclamation, declaring February 1st as Washington State Black Legacy Institute Day.

Roger Evans, curator for WSBLI spoke about the community aspect of the Institute and the exhibit they prepared for the month. He stated, "The Black Legacy Institute is a community institute... this space is your space. Enjoy it. Take care of it. It's for us." He thanked the Black Heritage Society for donating artifacts to the exhibit and noted the contributions of Gibson EC staff and volunteers.

Ashleigh McCurdy, the events and marketing director for WSBLI, invited attendees to explore the space, view the art exhibit, and enjoy the brunch. She also announced that the black legacy exhibit will remain open throughout February in celebration of Black History Month.

The event concluded with a powerful song by Savanna Boles, the first lady of Redeemed by the Blood Community Church. She sang, "Sweet chariot coming for to carry me home" and also said, "Thank you for your legacy." before the ribbon cutting, marking the official opening of the institute.

The Washington State Black Legacy Institute is poised to be a vital space for preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of the Black community in Seattle. The Institute features an art exhibit with artifacts from the Black Heritage Society and also has a space to honor pioneers in the black community.... The leaders of WSBLI, along with the city, have made a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing the contributions of the Black community.

You can visit the WSBLI on Facebook here.