For over 50 years, the Soul Pole has stood tall as a powerful, 21-foot reminder of Black history, endurance, and freedom outside Seattle Public Library’s (SPL) Douglass-Truth Branch in the historic Central District. The Black Heritage Society of Washington State rightfully called this artwork a "beacon of Black pride,” remaining a towering touchstone of Black creative excellence for generations to come. 

On a recent episode of "The Big O Show," The Big O interviewed Manny Santiago, the Chief of Equity and Community Partnerships for Washington Health Benefit Exchange, to provide essential updates and information about health insurance options in the state. The discussion emphasized the importance of applying for coverage, despite the perception that navigating health insurance can be a daunting maze.

From the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest, Seattle-born alternative hip hop artist Oblé Reed made his Chicago debut as part of the Groundwaves open mic and mentorship program in October. Omi Salisbury of VISTA Productions captured Reed’s set, where he performed some of his popular tracks like "SKYISFALLING,” and "CIRCLE THEORY,” all while perpetuating his values of community-building and self-care. 

Micaiah “Pluto” Jeffrey, a Seattle-born dancer and choreographer, joined host Deaunte Damper for a special Pride edition of “We Live In Color” last June to discuss their journey in self-discovery and creating community. Jeffrey shared about finding his niche at a young age, his artistic endeavors, and impactful advocacy work.  

By Elizah Lourdes Rendorio, Journalist Intern, The University of Washington - Seattle’s Mayor-elect Katie Wilson held her first transition meeting team Tuesday, Dec. 9 at El Centro De La Raza. Her 60-member team, which includes a group of student and youth advisors, convened to set the administration's initial agenda and priorities before taking office in January. 

This week on Back2Besa, the focus is on the people who don’t just talk about change — they show up for it every single day. From recovery spaces and women-led organizations to youth mentorship, men’s wellness, and community-led education, this episode is a reminder that real impact often starts at the local level, with people who are deeply rooted in the communities they serve.

In a city full of creatives, the people behind the camera don’t always get the spotlight — even though their work helps define how the culture is seen and remembered. On this week’s episode of Almost The Weekend, Cuddy sat down with Eric, one of the lead cinematographers behind Shot By Uzi, to talk about his journey, his creative process, and how the collective is building a distinct visual identity rooted in Seattle.

Seattle has a lot of talent, but every once in a while, a story stands out because of how intentional the journey has been. On this week’s episode of Almost The Weekend, Cuddy sat down with Xavier Smith, a Seattle native whose path from basketball to comedy proves that discipline travels — even when the destination changes.

This year marks a powerful milestone in Seattle’s history — 50 years since the Douglass-Truth Branch of The Seattle Public Library was renamed to honor Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. And on Almost The Weekend, Besa Gordon sat down with Brian Den Hartog-Lindsey, Curator of the African American Collection at the Douglass-Truth Branch, to talk about why this moment still matters today.

Mayor-elect Katie Wilson recently appeared on “The Big O Show” to discuss her transition into office and her administration's priorities, including homelessness and public safety. Wilson announced for the first time that she will keep Shon Barnes as Seattle Police Chief. "I've had several conversations now with Chief Barnes and I will be retaining him as our police chief,” she said. 

Portland, OR — Portland’s hip-hop scene comes alive when Festivale Cool Nutz takes over the Alberta Street Pub for two unforgettable nights of music, culture, and community tonight and tomorrow, December 12th & 13th. Headlined and curated by Cool Nutz, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected hip-hop pioneers, Festivale Cool Nutz unites a powerhouse lineup of regional talent representing the best of the city’s sound.

While the approaching winter months are all about staying warm and cozy, that doesn’t mean you can’t fill your calendar with spirited holiday events across the Emerald City! Besa Gordon shared a few of her favorite productions, activities, and holiday hotspots that make this time of year in the greater Seattle area so special. These are the experiences that turn you back into a kid and remind you what the season is all about.

Seattle City Councilmember Bob Kettle, representing District 7, recently sat down with host Omari Salisbury for an interview on the "Big O Show.” Kettle, a retired 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy and the chair of Seattle’s Public Safety Committee, spoke on Seattle’s public safety priorities and the balance between compassion and wisdom.

The King County Council, yesterday, unanimously selected Rhonda Lewis for an interim appointment to represent District 2, filling the seat vacated by now-King County Executive Girmay Zahilay. The appointment, celebrated by the Executive's office, is historic as Ms. Lewis becomes the first Black woman to serve on the King County Council, an event that also establishes the Council's first-ever majority of women.

The stage is set once more for the triumphant return of “Black Nativity,” the celebrated holiday production originally conceived by the legendary poet and playwright Langston Hughes. Presented by Intiman Theatre starting today, Dec. 10, this revival has become a powerful annual touchstone, re-establishing a sense of community, faith, and cultural pride.

Chief Amy Barden of Seattle’s Community Assisted Response and Engagement (CARE) department recently joined host Omari Salisbury on a recent episode of “The Big O Show.” As the city grapples with complex issues surrounding public safety, mental health, and community well-being, the CARE department represents a pivotal shift in how Seattle responds to crises. Chief Barden shared insights into the department's origins, its mission, and the deep structural challenges they face in trying to fix a fractured system.

The holiday season is here, and you know what that means—it’s time to celebrate culture, community, and the businesses that truly light up the Emerald City! For Besa Gordon, the holiday season isn't just about finding the perfect gift; it's about shopping with intention and investing directly in the excellence of Seattle’s Black community.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Fund is here to help high schoolers seeking higher education turn that dream into reality. This scholarship is all about finding future leaders in the Pacific Northwest who are ready to crush their college goals and take that next step to reaching their full potential.

Today, I was privileged to sit down with Libby Denkmann on KUOW's Soundside alongside KUOW reporter and producer Will James. The core of our conversation was the recently rediscovered footage—a video that I filmed in the chaos of the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (CHOP) back in June 2020. This is footage that captured the words of Antonio Mays Jr., a sixteen-year-old boy, just days before he was tragically shot and killed in the zone.

Now five months after returning to office, Councilmember Debora Juarez of District 5 (D5) has hit the ground running. Last month, Juarez  discussed her experience returning to council after a 19-month break. Her comeback signified a new beginning, driven not only by her unwavering commitment to public service but also a refreshed and recalibrated perspective on leadership.