Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans, past and present. It exists to ensure important stories are seen, heard, and valued, and it encourages reflection on how history continues to shape our communities today.
While the month highlights national history, it’s also about recognizing impact at the local level. Black leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs play an important role in shaping Spokane’s culture and future. Taking time to learn these stories helps strengthen understanding, connection, and community pride.
Leadership: Mayor Chase & Council President Wilkerson
Spokane’s history includes groundbreaking leadership, including Mayor James E. Chase, the first and only Black mayor of Spokane. Elected in 1981, Mayor Chase was a champion for civil rights, youth, and civic engagement. Before becoming mayor, he served as president of Spokane’s NAACP for nearly two decades and was the city’s first Black city council member. As mayor, he instituted Spokane’s “1 % for Art” program, which helped bring more public art into city spaces, and his legacy lives on through the Chase Youth Commission, Chase Middle School, and the Chase Art Gallery at City Hall—institutions that continue to support young people, the arts, and community building in Spokane…