Scope Screenings, a monthly independent film festival, has cemented its place as a vital cornerstone of Seattle’s arts ecosystem. Last month, the festival brought together a variety of filmmakers, musicians, and creatives to showcase their short-form content on the big screen. With pride in their people and expression, the local creatives and team members revealed a profound dedication to community, artistic growth, and powerful storytelling.

In the heart of Seattle's Central District, Zara Jo Beauty Supply is redefining the beauty product shopping experience for the Black community. Focusing on representation and Black-owned brands, the store's owner Jamal Wilson and Director of Events and Community Development Autumm Coles shared the inspiring journey behind their business and its commitment to the community.

The Re-Sole 206 is hosting Sole Food: For The Community, spearheaded by Takiyah “T-Dub” Ward, this Saturday, November 29, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. This special gathering is a marketplace rooted in care, culture, and connection, combining The Re-Sole’s sneaker donation program with local vendors, tasty food, and a deep dedication to uplifting the community. 

The Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute is transforming into a sacred space for Black imagination on Sunday, November 30. Former NFL star-turned-creative visionary, Martellus Bennett, aka MR. TOMONOSHi, is bringing his electrifying show, "Slices of Black American Life," right here to Seattle’s Central District.

Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle this morning for a Support Black Business uplift of Zara Jo Beauty Supply, a new beauty supply store in Seattle’s Central District owned by Jamal Wilson. After stopping by the storefront with Converge Media host Trae Holiday, Gordon shared that she left feeling joyful and represented. 

In the first episode of Chef Trey Lamont’s new series Food With Melanin, the owner of Jerk Shack Kitchen sat down for a compelling conversation at Fat’s Chicken and Waffles with Chef Erika White. In the first installment of the series airing in 2026, the two owners talked about White’s career as a Southern soul food chef, the establishment of Fats Chicken and Waffles in Seattle's Central District, and the importance of community in running a restaurant.

Chef Wally, the owner of Wally's Northwest Soul, opened the doors to his new storefront last month in Seattle’s Central District. After a decade and a half of serving the community through selling plates, catering, and pop-up spots, the chef described his new brick-and-mortar location as a return home, celebrating the monumental achievement with the community that has deeply influenced him.

In a rapidly changing Central District, Wa Na Wari strives to bridge the gaps between artistic expression, residential permanence, and physical activity with its annual art festival Walk the Block. Last month, the festival took over Seattle’s Central District with the strength of Black creativity on full display in the historic Seattle neighborhood that has marked the grounds of the city’s Black community for generations.  

Nothing screams your favorite auntie’s house like Fat's Chicken and Waffles, a New Orleans-inspired chicken joint in the heart of Seattle’s Central District. Opened in August 2015 by owner Erika White, the restaurant is nearing its ninth year of serving dishes that speak to the soul, paying homage to the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana.

The Garfield High School girls' basketball program is facing an uncertain future following the unexpected firing of head coach Roy Smiley. Smiley's removal last week, which comes just before the start of the season, has put the program at a major crossroads. Garfield’s boys' basketball coach and NBA legend, Brandon Roy, was also fired.

For the past two months, Scope Screenings has emerged as an essential film festival in Seattle’s Central District, fostering community and showcasing diverse talent in Seattle's Central District. Held monthly at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, the event brings together filmmakers, musicians, and artists for a unique and informal celebration of creativity.

Chef Trey Lamont, owner of Jerk Shack Kitchen in Seattle’s Central District, introduced his new and exciting take on a classic with his jerk-smoked ribeye steak sandwich. While walking us through the cooking process, Trey embodied a dedication to fresh ingredients, culinary innovation, and making it all happen with high energy and passion. 

SEATTLE, WA – September 10, 2025 – Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell today announced a proposed $350 million investment in affordable housing as part of the city's 2026 budget. The announcement, made at Bryant Manor North, detailed a multi-pronged approach to address housing challenges, which includes an $80 million anti-gentrification and reparations housing fund.

In a powerful and moving interview on "The Day with Trae," Zhalena Mathis shared the deeply personal story behind her book, DJ Saves the Day. Her journey is one of resilience, transforming unimaginable loss into a beacon of hope and a tool for positive change.

KeAnna Rose Pickett, owner of The Postman in Seattle's Central District, has announced today that she will be closing the business for good on August 31, 2025. "I'm feeling lighter because it's been stressful," she said in an interview earlier today, explaining the immense pressure of being a single parent, running a business, and working a second job after her husband's murder.

Seattle's Pier 62 transformed into a vibrant hub of Black culture and community last Saturday for the "Soul on the Water" festival, a key event within the "Summer of Soul" series hosted by the Africatown Community Land Trust. This free, all-ages event brought together generations of Black people from Seattle and beyond, celebrating their presence, resilience, and joy on the city's waterfront. 

Trae Holiday sat down for an insightful interview with Dr. Tarance Hart, Principal of Garfield High School, who shed light on an exciting and crucial upcoming event: the inaugural "Reclaiming the Village" summit.

Seattle's Central District is about to come alive with the sounds of jazz, blues, Latin, and soul! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 6th, from 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM, as the 12th Annual Jackson St Jazz Walk kicks off its yearly celebration of the area's rich African American music legacy.

In a heartwarming and insightful episode of "The Day With Trae," host Trae Holiday sat down with long-time community member and Converge Media supporter, Daemeon "Big D" Burrell, for a deep dive into the essence of growing up in Seattle's Central District, the importance of maintaining community ties, and celebrating significant life milestones.

Here is King County Equity Now’s Juneteenth Celebration at Jimi Hendrix Park in Seattle, Washington through the lens of photographer Susan Fried.