For over 70 years, Seattle residents have come together for a festival that has had many names but one purpose: to celebrate cultural diversity. The tradition continues as Umoja Fest Africatown Heritage Festival & Parade brings food, fashion, music, art, and more to Judkins Park on Aug. 5–6, 2023.
While Umoja Fest is one of many free, family-friendly events this summer, its roots are a unique part of Seattle’s history, which makes its legacy worth preserving. The event dates back to the late 1940s and the International Festival. During this time, the city’s Black, Chinese, Filipino, and Japanese communities came together in the Chinatown-International District for an event that combined culture and community. According to HistoryLink, large crowds ultimately led City authorities to urge each individual community to host its own festival. The International Festival is recognized as a catalyst for the Seafair festival, which began in 1950 and eventually coordinated with these community celebrations to align with Seafair’s schedule.
“Umoja Fest stands as a powerful legacy, embodying the essence of unity, resilience, and strength within our community. It pays homage to our esteemed elders, instills hope in the hearts of the next generation, and revitalizes our neighborhood by generating vital revenue. Truly, it represents the embodiment of Black excellence in all its glory,” said Margo Jones, creative producer of Umoja Fest.
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