Northwest African American Museum

05/28/2026

Original notes. Timeless impact.

In Luther Vandross: Artistry & Elegance, curated by the Grammy Museum®, explore original handwritten lyrics and studio notes, offering a rare look at the artistry behind the music.

Now on view at NAAM.

05/28/2026

The free two-day art fair happening May 30-31 at the Northwest African American Museum features the works of more than 30 Black artists. https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/visual-arts/wa-na-waris-black-graduation-art-fair-celebrates-richness-of-black-arts/?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=owned_echobox_f&utm_source=Facebook =1779913354

05/26/2026

05/19/2026

in 1925, Malcolm X was born in Omaha, Nebraska and would become one of the most influential voices in the fight for Black empowerment and self-determination.

The fourth of seven children born to Earl Little and Louise Norton, Malcolm’s early life was shaped by racial violence and systemic instability. After years of hardship, incarceration, and personal transformation, he emerged as a powerful speaker and leader, first within the Nation of Islam and later as an independent activist with a global perspective.

Malcolm X challenged America to confront the realities of racism, advocating for Black pride, economic independence, and human rights. His perspective evolved over time, particularly after his pilgrimage to Mecca, where he began to embrace a more expansive vision of unity and justice.

Though his life was cut short, his legacy continues to influence movements for racial justice and liberation around the world.

05/15/2026

Did you hear? — NAAM’s biggest celebration of the year is back! Join us at Judkins Park and the Museum on Friday, June 19th, for our 2026 Juneteenth Celebration, a day where movement becomes our rhythm, art becomes our voice, and community becomes the sound that connects us.

From the return of our famous Skate to Freedom Party to vendors, workshops, local artists, community conversations, an arts and crafts family room, a FIFA World Cup watch party, live performances from Living Voices, and more, there will be something for everyone to enjoy across Judkins Park and the Museum.

All patrons and attendees will receive free admission to the Museum, including access to our current exhibitions, Luther Vandross: Artistry & Elegance and our new exhibition centered around the story of the salute at the 1968 Summer Olympics, The Story of the Salute.

More details coming soon!

05/14/2026

This Saturday at NAAM! 3PM-4PM

2300 S MASSACHUSETTS ST.
Seattle, WA 98144

05/13/2026

This Saturday, 3PM-4PM at NAAM!

05/12/2026

This Saturday at NAAM!

05/09/2026

Through handwritten notes, iconic stagewear, and the creative process behind the music, Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance offers an intimate look at one of the greatest voices of all time.

Hear directly from our community on why this experience matters, and why seeing this history preserved here in Seattle makes such an impact.

🎶 Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance — Curated by the GRAMMY Museum®
📍 On view now at the Northwest African American Museum through July 19

Plan your visit today!

Learn more: https://www.naamnw.org/luther-vandross-exhibit

05/09/2026

Exciting Grant Opportunity: Creative Equity Fund!

Applications for the Creative Equity Fund open May 26! This opportunity supports King County arts and culture organizations led by and serving communities historically excluded from large-scale philanthropy, including Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Color, LGBTQ+ communities, and people with disabilities.

Three organizations will receive $210,000 over three years, paired with a grantee-led learning cohort!

Info Session: May 20
Round 1 Applications Open: May 26 – June 12

Learn more: bit.ly/26CreativeEquityFund