Explore Black businesses and organizations in Washington serving your community. Find law firms, medical practices, restaurants, retail stores, nonprofits, cultural organizations, and community services owned by or dedicated to serving the Black community. Connect with establishments that understand your cultural values and provide services in your language.
Located in Spokane, WA, the Gonzaga Black Law Student Association represents a cornerstone of diversity and belonging within Gonzaga University's law school community. This student-led organization was established to address the unique needs and experiences of Black law students pursuing their legal education at Gonzaga, fostering a sense of community and mutual support among members who are committed to excellence in the legal profession.
The association embodies Gonzaga University's values of social justice, inclusivity, and academic rigor. By serving the Spokane-based law school community, the organization creates meaningful connections between students, faculty, and alumni who are dedicated to advancing equity within the legal field. Members of the Gonzaga Black Law Student Association share a commitment to supporting one another through the challenges of law school while celebrating their achievements and contributions.
As part of the broader Gonzaga University community in Spokane, this organization extends its impact beyond campus walls, engaging with local legal professionals and community organizations. The association provides a welcoming space where Black law students can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prepare for successful careers in law. Through collaborative programming and intentional community building, the Gonzaga Black Law Student Association strengthens the fabric of the law school and contributes to a more diverse and inclusive legal profession in the Spokane region and throughout Washington state.
Seattle University Law's Black Law Student Association represents a cornerstone of community and belonging for Black law students pursuing their legal education in Seattle, WA. As a chapter of the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA), this student organization embodies the values of inclusion, excellence, and service that define Seattle University School of Law's educational mission.
The organization serves as both a support network and an advocacy platform for Black law students navigating the challenges and opportunities of legal education. SUBLSA members find community with peers who share similar experiences and aspirations, creating meaningful friendships and professional relationships that extend beyond the classroom. The association recognizes the unique perspectives and contributions that Black law students bring to Seattle University's diverse student body and the legal profession at large.
Rooted in Seattle's commitment to social justice and civil rights, SUBLSA actively engages with community initiatives that address systemic inequities and promote access to justice. Members participate in mentorship programs, networking events, and community service projects that connect legal education to real-world impact. The organization collaborates with Seattle University's broader diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, including partnerships with the Center for Civil Rights and Critical Justice and other social justice-focused institutions within the law school.
By bringing together Black law students in Seattle, WA, SUBLSA creates a supportive space where members can thrive academically, develop professionally, and contribute to positive change in their communities. The organization demonstrates Seattle University School of Law's dedication to cultivating diverse legal talent and preparing lawyers who are committed to serving all members of society with integrity and compassion.
Western Washington Realtist, based in Kent, WA, is the local chapter of NAREB—the oldest minority professional trade association in America, founded in 1947 to secure equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or color. With roots in a powerful historical mission, Western Washington Realtist continues to champion fair housing and equitable homeownership for all communities throughout Western Washington.
The organization operates on three core pillars: Advocacy, Activism, and Action. Through advocacy, Western Washington Realtist works to influence public policies that protect and expand sustainable homeownership. Through activism, the organization maintains a strong social justice commitment, vigorously supporting equal opportunity and fair treatment for the Black community in housing. Through action, members promote homeownership and civic engagement grounded in the principle of democracy in housing.
Founded locally in December 2009 and chartered in August 2010, Western Washington Realtist has built a vibrant community of real estate professionals united by shared values. The term "Realtist" itself carries historical significance, representing professionals who stood with communities of color when the established real estate industry closed its doors to them. Today, Western Washington Realtist members represent all professional disciplines within real estate, united in their commitment to ensuring that communities of color are treated with dignity and respect. When conversations involve Black homeownership in Washington State, Western Washington Realtist is at the table, advancing the legacy of equal housing opportunity for future generations.
Founded in 1980 by a dedicated group of accountants, the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. Seattle Chapter has grown into a vital community organization serving the Seattle, WA area with a mission to inspire and develop Black leaders in accounting and finance. The chapter is rooted in the belief that diverse perspectives strengthen the profession and that intentional mentorship creates lasting impact across generations. Beyond professional networking, the Seattle chapter emphasizes civic responsibility and community engagement, providing members with meaningful opportunities to give back and make a difference in the broader Seattle community. The organization recognizes that professional success is built on relationships, shared experiences, and mutual support—values reflected in its thriving member communities where accounting professionals connect with peers who share similar career goals and life experiences. By encouraging and assisting minority students in entering the accounting profession, the chapter actively works to expand opportunity and representation at every level of the industry. The Seattle chapter operates as part of a national movement to transform the accounting and finance landscape, ensuring that future generations of Black professionals have access to mentorship, resources, and a supportive network that empowers them to achieve their highest potential and shape the future of their profession.
Founded in August 1968, the Loren Miller Bar Association has grown from just 13 founders to a thriving statewide organization of over 250 attorneys dedicated to civil rights and community advancement in Seattle, WA and throughout Washington. At its core, LMBA is fundamentally a civil rights organization committed to confronting institutionalized racism and addressing the social and economic disparities affecting the African-American community. Since its inception, the association has championed landmark victories—from ensuring equal treatment of African-American athletes at the University of Washington to co-founding the Northwest Minority Job Fair and hosting the National Bar Association's annual conventions in 1984 and 1994. In 1978, the organization formally incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c)(4) corporation, and in 1997 established the Philip L. Burton Memorial Foundation as a 501(c)(3) entity to administer scholarships for law students. For over five decades, LMBA has provided essential leadership, meaningful networking opportunities, and a vital platform for addressing complex issues affecting the Seattle community and beyond. The association's members have served with distinction on Washington State Bar Association and King County Bar Association committees, demonstrating their commitment to systemic change and professional excellence. LMBA remains dedicated to its founding mission: advancing the well-being of its membership while improving relations between the legal profession and the community at large, creating lasting positive change through law and advocacy.
Founded in 2004 by Risho Sapano, Mother Africa emerged from a powerful vision: that African refugee and immigrant women should have voices and seats at decision-making tables, not merely be recipients of services. Based in Kent, WA, this organization has grown into a vital resource for African families navigating the complexities of building new lives in their adopted home. Mother Africa recognizes that immigrant and refugee women and their families face unique challenges that require culturally-informed, community-centered solutions. Rather than imposing external frameworks, Mother Africa listens—through years of direct outreach and programming, the organization has built deep relationships with the communities it serves. This relational approach has enabled Mother Africa to create a strong web of resources spanning civic engagement, youth development, economic empowerment, and environmental justice. The organization celebrates the resilience, potential, and contributions of African women while working alongside them to build safety nets and create ladders to economic independence. By positioning African refugee and immigrant women as leaders and changemakers rather than passive beneficiaries, Mother Africa advances racial equity throughout the Kent community. The organization's commitment to amplifying community voice and supporting families to reach their highest potential reflects a belief in the transformative power of partnership, dignity, and cultural pride.
For more than two decades, Rainbow Center has been a vital sanctuary and advocacy organization for the LGBTQ2SA community in South Puget Sound, including Tacoma, Washington. Founded on principles of education, advocacy, and celebration, the organization creates safe spaces where LGBTQ2S individuals and their allies can access resources, build community, and find support. Located in Tacoma, Rainbow Center maintains a welcoming physical space with consistent daily operating hours, making it accessible to those seeking connection and assistance. The center serves as a gathering place where community members can access lending library materials, utilize computer and Wi-Fi resources, receive advocacy services, and obtain educational materials tailored to their needs. What distinguishes Rainbow Center is its holistic approach to community support—recognizing that LGBTQ2S individuals need not just services but celebration and visibility. The organization demonstrates deep commitment to intersectional justice, particularly in its solidarity with Black Lives and communities of color, understanding that LGBTQ2S people encompass every demographic and face compounded systemic challenges. By annually serving around 1,000 individuals directly and welcoming thousands more through events and partnerships, Rainbow Center has become an integral part of the Tacoma and Pierce County social fabric. The organization's hosting of major celebrations like Tacoma Pride and the Black & White Gayla reflects its belief that joy, visibility, and community celebration are essential components of liberation and healing for LGBTQ2S populations.
Seattle Cares Mentoring Movement, based in Seattle, Washington, is dedicated to securing and transforming the lives of Black children by inspiring, recruiting, and mobilizing masses of caring Black men and women to mentor and nourish them. The organization's mission centers on creating a nation in which all Black children are loved, have access to quality culturally competent education, and are supported by well-resourced families and communities living in harmony and guided by faith. Through their national volunteer affiliate network, Seattle Cares connects adults to local youth-serving organizations throughout the Seattle area, building deep relationships rooted in mutual love and respect for Black history and heritage. The organization envisions a world in which African American children and their families are deeply grounded in the contributions and resilience of their foreparents, honoring the legacy that has enriched the United States and the world. Serving Black youth in Seattle and King County, the organization recognizes that many families face higher risks for depression, substance abuse, and domestic violence. By providing critical skills and positive support systems, Seattle Cares Mentoring Movement works to improve lives and transform futures for an entire generation. The organization invites community members to engage in meaningful ways—whether through mentoring the next generation, making donations, or participating in wellness circles—to help create a more equitable and inclusive Seattle community where all children can succeed and thrive.
Founded in 1958 by twenty-two dedicated mothers, the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Seattle Chapter represents over 60 years of commitment to youth excellence and community service in Redmond, Washington and the surrounding region. As the 98th chapter to join the national organization, the Seattle Chapter was built on the visionary philosophy of Marion Stubbs Thomas, which emphasizes bringing children together to form lasting friendships, engage in cultural learning, and grow into conscientious citizens.
The organization's deep roots in the Redmond community reflect a mission centered on nurturing future African-American leaders through meaningful relationships and shared values. Today, the chapter serves as a gathering place for families across King and Snohomish Counties, creating spaces where children can play together, learn from one another, and develop a strong sense of civic responsibility. The membership spans diverse communities from Bellevue to Snohomish, united by a common commitment to excellence and community enrichment.
Each January, the Seattle Chapter honors its founding mothers through an annual Founders' Day Celebration, recognizing the vision and dedication that established this vital community institution. The chapter's evolution, including the addition of an Associates Mothers Group, demonstrates its ongoing dedication to strengthening families and children in the Redmond area. By combining cultural activities, volunteer opportunities, and philanthropic engagement, the organization embodies the principle that collective effort creates lasting positive change for all children in the community.
Serving families in Tacoma, Washington, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Tacoma Chapter is a family-centered organization rooted in the mission of creating meaningful connections among mothers and children while providing opportunities for growth and development. The chapter believes that all children deserve equal access to enriching experiences and quality programming, and works tirelessly to support this vision through organized community efforts. Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Tacoma Chapter brings together dedicated parents who are passionate about their children's well-being and educational advancement. The organization creates a supportive medium of contact where families can engage in constructive recreational, social, and cultural activities together. Beyond direct programming, the chapter is committed to advancing child welfare on a broader scale by supporting legislation aimed at improving conditions for all children and developing educational materials on childcare and child development. The Tacoma Chapter embodies a philosophy of collective responsibility, where parents work collaboratively to enhance their understanding of child development while creating an inclusive community for families. Through workshops, cultural events, and civic initiatives, the organization demonstrates its commitment to expanding opportunities for children and strengthening the fabric of family life in the Tacoma community. Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Tacoma Chapter represents a longstanding tradition of parent-led advocacy and community building focused on nurturing the next generation.
As principle attorney and founder of The Curtis Firm, LLC., James Curtis provides skilled representation in a variety of matters, including cash seizure and forfeiture, criminal defense, DUI defense, and personal injury. For more than 14 years, he has been aggressively advocating and winning cases for clients in and around Western Washington. Mr. Curtis has a fundamental understanding of the law, as well as many years of felony trial experience. He works tirelessly to get the results his clients are looking for. No matter what you're facing, James has that experience necessary to defend your rights and shed light on any shortcomings related to investigative techniques in your case.
Prior to establishing his own firm, Mr. Curtis served as a deputy prosecuting attorney trying over 1000 DUI cases. During this time, he was heavily involved in levying charges and investigating police conduct. He regularly defended suppression and dismissal motions and participated in numerous jury trials. Today, he calls upon these experiences when working to have DUI cases dismissed or reduced so clients may avoid jail, stay employed, and continue driving.
James Curtis served in the drug/firearm unit examining police investigations and drug/firearm evidence. He has strong practical knowledge and experience analyzing possession charges and extensive training in police procedures, search warrants and undercover drug-buy operations. When representing individuals who have been charged with drug offenses/VUCSA, Mr. Curtis employs an aggressive and methodical approach to getting cases dismissed, reduced, or prevail at trial.
Serving in the violent crimes and gang unit, Mr. Curtis tried over 100 cases involving murder, assault and robbery. During this time, he amassed extensive experience in these areas of the law and is ready to use that experience to defend your rights.
James Curtis was raised in the Tacoma Hilltop Community and graduated from Stadium High School in 1994. After graduation, he worked a series of low-wage, labor intensive jobs. Unsatisfied with the work and prospects for the future, Mr. Curtis set out to transform himself from laborer to lawyer. He graduated from Tacoma Community College with honors and earned multiple scholarships that would allow him to transfer and earn a degree from the University of Washington. He went on to earn his law degree from the University of Washington School of Law and took his first professional position as an associate at the prestigious K&L Gates firm.
When he's not advocating on behalf of his clients, Mr. Curtis gives back to the community whenever possible. He makes contributions in the areas of education, criminal justice and youth recreation. His work has earned special recognition from the City of Tacoma, Washington State Bar Association and Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association. Mr. Curtis regularly appears as a keynote speaker at events and conferences on law, education and related topics.
I grew up in the Central District of Seattle during the 80s and 90s before it was gentrified. My father was in construction. My mother was a lawyer. Both parents instilled in me a desire to help others—in particular the marginalized populations within the city. I felt I could best help by having a career in business or law. Before going off to college I decided to pursue a business degree partially because I was afraid that people would think I “had it easy” and was not genuine in my intentions. Because not only was my mother a lawyer, but she was the first Asian American female appointed as a judge in Washington State. My grandfather had also been a lawyer as were others in my family. I graduated from Morehouse College in 2007 with a degree in finance and secured a great job in banking, just in time for the Great Recession. Halfway through my eight year career as a banker I obtained an MBA at the Tuck School of Business. Even though I was successfully climbing the corporate ladder, I felt increasingly unfulfilled. I was not helping my community through my work in a meaningful way. I finally noticed a change in myself. My greatest feelings of pride and accomplishment shifted from working on huge deals to my experiences volunteering for nonprofits. Teaching math to children in the West End of Atlanta. Helping veterans in New Hampshire and Vermont acquire basic services through Project VetCare. It took me almost half a year to build up enough courage to walk away from a fruitful career. Yes, I created multiple Excel models to help make this decision… In mid-2015, I left the corporate life style and returned home to Seattle. The next year I began attending the University of Washington School of Law. My first summer job was with the Law Offices of Vonda Sargent where I was able to work on a notable police misconduct case. Next, I externed at the Tenant Law Center of Catholic Community Services of Western Washington where I helped provide legal services to tenants facing discriminatory evictions. Then in my third year of law school I interned with the SKKM firm right in time to help with the Ride the Ducks case and trial. Finally, I felt in sync with who I am and with the principles I deeply value.
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