In 2021, the Taking B(l)ack Pride festival at Seattle's Jimi Hendrix Park became a pivotal moment for the city’s Black trans and queer community. Rather than simply asking for representation, the event was a bold act of taking space, creating an intentionally safe environment for members to celebrate, uplift, and honor one another. From the healing tents to the performances by local and national artists, the festival served as a powerful declaration of humanity and resilience, prioritizing community-led joy despite the external threats and pressures that organizers faced during the planning process.

For those who chronicled and attended the event, it was never framed as a protest, but rather as a necessary gathering for Black trans individuals to connect, heal, and exist freely in the company of their peers. By providing a platform for these voices to share their own stories without external filters, the festival underscored the vital importance of self-upliftment and visibility. Ultimately, the day stood as a refreshing affirmation that the community matters, belongs, and remains steadfast in its commitment to solidarity and togetherness.