Seattle mlk jr organizing coalition
Marching for justice since 1983.
Marching for justice since 1983.
The ability to document, correct, and preserve history is in the hands of the people who experience it – you, me, us. If Black people are not claiming and sharing our true history, who will? Black narratives are significant to the full story of this nation. Our contributions and legacies matter. This session will focus on these concerns and challenge you to actively participate as a History Keeper and recorder of family and community historical fact and memory.
Join the Black Heritage Society of Washington State and the Black Genealogy Research Group of Seattle who will share how their organizations work to claim, tell, and preserve history.
Hosts:
Brenetta Ward is a Seattle-based fabric artist, third-generation quilter, and oral historian. She serves on the board of the Black Genealogy Research Group of Seattle and is President-elect for the 2024 -2025 term. Brenetta is committed to discovering, sharing, and preserving her family history and helping others do the same.
Debra Harris-Branham is a Professional Storyteller and Mixed Media Artist. born and raised in Seattle. She has been a board member of the Seattle Storytellers Guild and is presently serving on the Board of the Black Genealogy Research Group of Seattle. Her passion is encouraging others to collect family memories and bring them to life through storytelling and art.
BHS Presenters:
Stephanie Johnson-Toliver, President/BHS, is a fourth generation Seattleite, and President at the Black Heritage Society of Washington State where the organization stewards the largest legacy collection of regional African American memorabilia. Beyond BHS, Stephanie advocates for saving places, co-leads the Historic Central Area Arts & Cultural District and is a board member at the Museum of History & Industry, Historic Seattle, and Office of the Secretary of State-Legacy Washington.
Ethelmarie Hubbard, Board Member & Collections Chair/BHS, is a proud and life-long Seattleite who serves at the Black Heritage Society of Washington State with her passion for preserving history and appreciation for storytelling. Ethelmarie is a deep-diving genealogist who documents her roots and dedicates hours to helping others discover theirs.
William “Bill” Butler was born in Norfolk, Virginia, but was raised in Seattle, Washington. He serves on the board of the Black Genealogy Research Group of Seattle and is Treasurer-elect for the 2024 -2025 term. Bill supports the various missions and visions of organizations through the use of his skills and talents: Digital Storytelling, Audio Visual, Educator and Community Activist, and Cultivator of Children’s Dreams.
