Upcoming Events
New events added frequently to this calendar. Check back regularly to learn about exciting, newly added events.
Sounders FC Day
In honor of Women’s History Month join us at NAAM for Sounders FC Day! The first 200 museum visitors will get in FREE when they wear the Sounders FC gear or colors. Attendees will enjoy the following activites throughout the day:
11:00: Film Screening of ‘Pele: Birth of a Legend’ directed by Jeff and Michael Zimbalist
1:00: An in-person Interactive Story Time Reading of ’I am Extraordinary’ by Stephen Curry
(There will be a "special giveaway" of copies of "I Am Extraordinary” for attendees of the reading)
1:30: Soccer Clinic & KIP Books and Balls Giveaway where we’ll giveaway the book ‘Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World’ by Vashti Harrison
2:15: Raffle giveaway announcement for signed Sounders FC jersey.
3:30: Film Screening of ‘Alive & Kickin: The Soccer Grannies of South Africa’
Food will be available for purchase from the food truck, Swagg-n-Wagon known for the “best fried chicken in the NW.”
Community Health and Resource Fair
Join NAAM and Public Health Community Health Services for the Community Health and Resource Fair. We will have a variety of health and service vendors for attendees to explore and learn more about in an effort to improve overall wellness.
The Descendants Series with Ilyasah Shabazz
In partnership with the King County Library System and Seattle Opera, join us for an inspiring evening with Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of civil rights icon Malcolm X, also known as Malik el-Shabazz being held at the Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center.
Reflect on the legacy of one of the most influential figures in history through the lens of his daughter’s unique perspective. Hear as she brings Malcolm X’s narrative to life, weaving together her personal insights behind his biography and underscoring the enduring power of his message. The talk will provide a rare opportunity to connect with history and be inspired to continue his work to resist oppression, challenge injustice, and fight for social and political equality.
Afrobeats Dance Class is Cancelled
This class has been cancelled. If you have registered, we will be sending out emails shortly. We look forward to hosting more events in the future.
In-Person Interactive Story Time "The Story of Rap"
Enjoy in-person interactive story time reading of “The Story of Rap” in the Community Living Room. Attendees will receive a FREE copy of the book and complimentary food will be provided by Ezell’s Chicken. Click to Register to Attend
Genealogy Live (Interactive Workshops)
Register to Attend Here and learn more about the workshops below.
Hidden in Plain Sight: Sharing Research and Stories of Enslaved Ancestors 11AM-12PM
Are you having trouble breaking the 1870 brick wall for a branch of your family? This presentation from the Robert F. Smith Family History Center team will explore how to find enslaved ancestors using slave schedules, wills and inventories and history blogs. Lunch will be provided.
Genealogy Live 1PM-2PM
Join the Robert F. Smith Family History Center team from 11AM-12PM where they will share best practices in family history research, test the knowledge of the audience through black genealogy and history trivia, and invite a guest to begin tracing their family tree.
We will conclude with a Q &A. Lunch will be provided.
Internships and Fellowships Talk 3PM-5PM
Learn about the program’s approach to hands-on training, mentorship, and community. Organizations, career centers, and universities will learn how to create impactful internship programs, while students gain a behind-the-scenes look at the museum world, and receive guidance to tailor their applications and experience for optimal learning and career growth.
Black History Month Keynote with Dr. Doretha Williams
Join us for our Black History Keynote with Dr. Doretha Williams and her family history team from the Smithsonian Museum. Dr. Doretha Williams will be NAAM's keynote speaker in honor of Black History Month where she will discuss Black family history and genealogy. Dr. Williams' presentation honors NAAM's tradition of hosting a Smithsonian scholar for Black History Month.
Sistah Scifi West Coast Book Tour - Nisi Shawl: Kinning
Join us for the Sistah Scifi West Coast Book Tour for “Kinning,” at the Northwest African American Museum as we celebrate the sequel to literary luminary Nisi Shawl’s debut novel, “Everfair.”
Register to Attend Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sistah-scifi-west-coast-book-tour-nisi-shawl-kinning
King Day 2024
Join NAAM for our annual King Day celebration honoring the life, legacy and sacrifice of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Enjoy a day at NAAM full of music, movies, motivational speakers, and activities for the entire family.
During the celebration, we will be debuting a new exhibit entitled Interrupting Privilege hosted by The Center for Communication, Difference, and Equity (CCDE). This interactive exhibit will be an immersive mixed-media experience where attendees learn the history and methodology of Interrupting Privilege and have the unique opportunity to listen to recorded dialogues as we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. together. Register to experience Interrupting Privilege Here.
Check back soon for a full list of community activations and activities at NAAM on this momentous day!
Black Santa Pop Up Photo Op
Get into the holiday spirit with holiday crafts, winter refreshments and a photo with Black Santa. To get a photo with Santa all you have to do is register at the link below, we will have hot cocoa ready for you when you arrive on December 16.
Interactive Story Time
Enjoy a reading of “Does Santa Look Like Me?” written by Ariel Young and illustrated by Monika Wnek.
The book follows the journey of AJ, a young black boy who is super excited about his family Christmas and visiting with Santa Claus, until he realizes that all the toys on the toy aisles and all the Santa Claus decorations look nothing like him. Sweet and affirming, Does Santa Look Like Me? is an ode to the importance of positive representation and diversity in popular characters like Santa for children. The gift of representation will empower kids of all races for years to come.
The Interactive Story Time will go live on our official YouTube channel at 1PM. Ring the bell on our Youtube page to be notified about all upcoming Interactive Story Time releases.
Positive Frequencies Artist Reception
Join us for an Artist Reception at NAAM to explore and experience NAAM’s latest art exhibit Positive Frequencies. Attendees will get to speak to the four featured artists in the exhibit as they discuss their process, their art, and the importance and power of music.
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/positive-frequencies
African Yoga at NAAM: Dr. Shereen Morse
Join NAAM for a FREE Yoga Class in Legacy Hall taught with Shereen Morse. We encourage people to set an intention and to leave judgments of themselves and others at the door. This class is unpretentious, playful and transformative.
Bringing yoga mats from home is encouraged.
Interactive Story Time
Enjoy a reading of “Little People Big Dreams: Stevie Wonder” written by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and illustrated by Melissa Lee Johnson.
The book is about the life of Stevie Wonder and his astonishing talent on the piano and other instruments. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the great musician’s life.
Watch Interactive Story Time Premiere Here: https://youtu.be/kuMK2BvvQGk
The Interactive Story Time will go live on our official YouTube channel at 1PM. Ring the bell on our Youtube page to be notified about all upcoming Interactive Story Time releases.
Ayana Mathis Book Launch: The Unsettled
Join us for the book launch of The Unsettled by New York Times Best Selling author, Ayana Mathis. The story is set in the 1980s in racially and politically turbulent Philadelphia and in the tiny town of Bonaparte, Alabama. The Unsettled follows the journey of a mother fighting for her sanity and survival.
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ayana-mathis-book-launch-the-unsettled-tickets-706798763127?aff=oddtdtcreator
Dr. Blair LM Kelley on “The Roots of the Black Working Class”
Join us as Dr. Kelley illuminates the adversities and joys of the Black working class in America through a stunning narrative centered on her forebears.
A tide of commentary has obscured the labor, and even the very existence, of entire groups of working people, including everyday Black workers. In this brilliant corrective acclaimed historian Blair LM Kelley restores the Black working class to the center of the American story.
This free event is presented in partnership with Northwest African American Museum and is supported by The Seattle Public Library Foundation, author series sponsor Gary Kunis, and media sponsor The Seattle Times.
Register to attend here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dr-blair-lm-kelley-on-the-roots-of-the-black-working-class-tickets-695700267227?aff=oddtdtcreator
Interactive Story Time
Enjoy a reading of “Ayomide and Seyi's Kitchen: A Kids’ Guide to Plant Based Nutrition from A to Z” written by Margaret Towolawi, MD and illustrated by Anabella Ortiz.
The book is narrated by six year old Ayomide who takes you on a fictional tour of various plant-based foods, including some interesting facts - with his four year old little sister, Seyi, alongside him. This ABC book is a "bite-sized" course on plant-based nutrition while keeping readers engaged through beautiful illustrations.
The Interactive Story Time will go live on our official YouTube channel at 1PM. Ring the bell on our Youtube page to be notified about all upcoming Interactive Story Time releases.
2023 Unity Benefit
NAAM is thrilled to welcome esteemed guests and museum supporters to enjoy an intimate cocktail affair with live music, artistic performances, and an inspirational program.
Learn More: https://www.naamnw.org/unity-benefit
Become a Sponsor & Purchase Tickets: https://event.auctria.com/7e776b8b-ab90-488f-bdda-c95c3d909fbf/
Seattle Black Panthers Fight for Justice and Freedom Documentary Film Preview and Book Talk
Join us at NAAM for our October First Thursdays program, an advanced film preview of the Seattle Black Panthers Fight for Justice and Freedom Documentary Film. Following the film preview, there will be a Q&A session with activist, author, and former captain of the Seattle Chapter of the Black Panther Party, Mr. Aaron Dixon and director and producer of the documentary film, Mr. Rick DuPree. Mr. Aaron Dixon will also discuss and sign copies of his book My People are Rising: Memoir of a Black Panther Party Captain.
Register to attend here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seattle-black-panthers-documentary-film-preview-and-book-talk-tickets-721157791367?aff=oddtdtcreator
Ticketing for the event is by museum admission: $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for Seniors, $5.00 for Youth
Flow Gaines Yoga
Join us in Legacy Hall on September 20th for a yoga class with instructors from Wellness Gaines Fitness in Renton, Washington .
You'll experience a blend of different yoga styles, suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our skilled instructors will guide you through gentle stretches, strengthening poses, and relaxation techniques to improve your flexibility, strengthen your body, calm your mind, and cultivate a sense of mindfulness.
Bringing a yoga mat from home is encouraged. NAAM will provide bottled water and light snacks for after the class.
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flow-gaines-yoga-event-at-naam-tickets-706773999057?aff=oddtdtcreator
Grandparents Day & African American Elders Day
In partnership with the Mayor's Council on African American Elders and sponsored by AARP, join us for Grandparents Day that will include the induction of four elders into the Elders Circle, KIP Book giveaway, spoken word performance, interactive story time, free food, live music, and more. There is complimentary admission for seniors.
Register to Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/grandparents-day-african-american-elders-day-celebration-tickets-710273104977?aff=oddtdtcreator
Interactive Story Time | Virtual and In-Person
In honor of Grandparent's Day, join us at the museum or virtually on YouTube for a reading of “When I am Old With You” by Angela Johnson and illustrated by David Soman.
The story follows a child who imagines being old with his Grandaddy and joining him in such activities as playing cards all day, visiting the ocean, and eating bacon on the porch.The Interactive Story Time will go live on our official YouTube channel at 1PM. Ring the bell on our Youtube page to be notified about all upcoming Interactive Story Time releases.
Late Nites and Bites
We are excited to partner for Late Nites and Bites with neighborhood food trucks and local vendors and businesses. Explore the Northwest African American Museum until 7pm, grab some snacks, and make new friends. At 6PM join us for a 21+ Play Time Game Show. Audience members will volunteer to participate in rounds of games such as dancing, improv, trivia and more.
Register for the Play Time Game Show here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/late-nite-play-time-at-naam-tickets-706761832667?aff=oddtdtcreator
Admission is $10 for Adults, $8 for Students, Seniors and Military w/id and $5 for Youth.
Freedom Weekend | Day 3
Join NAAM for Day 3 of a 3 day celebration of life, freedom, and community as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the March for Freedom and Jobs. Day #3 is the Community Panel. The panel will reflect on the progress made and not yet achieved, the importance of inspiring change, how we can empower our future, and explore methods of building a just society. The panel will be comprised of community leaders, including labor and elected officials. A Q&A will follow allowing attendees to ask questions or make comments.
Visit https://www.naamnw.org/freedom-weekend to learn more.
Freedom Weekend | Day 2
Join NAAM for Day 2 of a 3 day celebration of life, freedom, and community as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the March for Freedom and Jobs. Day #2 is the Film Festival & Rally which features 5 documentaries about the March for Freedom and the history of freedom fighters in America. At 3PM you can also meet at NAAM for a rally that ends at MLK Jr. Memorial Park.
Visit https://www.naamnw.org/freedom-weekend to learn more.
Freedom Weekend | Day 1
Join NAAM for Day 1 of a 3 day celebration of life, freedom, and community as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the March for Freedom and Jobs. Day #1 is Youth Day which would include storytelling, a resource and opportunities fair, a talent show, and so much more.
Visit https://www.naamnw.org/freedom-weekend to learn more.
Yoga at NAAM
Join NAAM for a FREE Yoga Class in Legacy Hall taught by Jessica Dennis of Corepower Yoga. We encourage people to set an intention and to leave judgments of themselves and others at the door. This class is unpretentious, playful and transformative.
Bringing yoga mats from home is encouraged.
Book Talk with Debbie Haggin
Join the Northwest African American Museum as we spend the evening with Debbie Haggin as she reads her new book "Debbie Dreamer" in Legacy Hall and then join us for a Q&A. The book will also be available for purchase.
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/booktalkdebbiehaggin
The talk is free for museum members. Museum ticket entry is required for non members $10 for adult and $5 for youth. Additional donations are welcome. https://www.naamnw.org/donate
Interactive Storytime Reading
Watch a reading of “Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965” written by bestselling picture-book author Jonah Winter and illustrated by Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner Shane W. Evans.
The story follows Lillian, a one-hundred-year-old African American woman, who makes a “long haul up a steep hill” to her polling place, she sees more than trees and sky—she sees her family’s history. She sees the passage of the Fifteenth Amendment and her great-grandfather voting for the first time. She sees her parents trying to register to vote. And she sees herself marching in a protest from Selma to Montgomery.
The Interactive Story Time will go live on our official YouTube channel at 1PM. Ring the bell on our Youtube page to be notified about all upcoming Interactive Story Time releases.
Late Nites and Bites
Enjoy a day at the museum with local food vendors supplying your favorite bites into the night. Explore the Northwest African American Museum until 7pm, grab some snacks, and make new friends. Admission is $10 for Adults, $8 for Students, Seniors and Military w/id and $5 for Youth.
In-Person Interactive Story Time Reading
Join NAAM for an in-Person Interactive Storytime Reading in NAAM's Community Living Room featuring a children's book about Frederick Douglass.
Registration to Attend Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-person-interactive-story-time-in-the-community-living-room-tickets-664886281767?aff=oddtdtcreator
Late Nites and Bites
Enjoy a day at the museum with local food vendors supplying your favorite bites into the night. Explore the Northwest African American Museum until 7pm, grab some snacks, and make new friends. Admission is $10 for Adults, $8 for Students, Seniors and Military w/id and $5 for Youth.
Ongoing Programs
Virtual Exhibit
Iconic Black Women: Ain’t I A Woman by Hiawatha D.
Virtual Exhibit
Algorithm:Archetype by Christopher Shaw
Online Education Program
Dr. Carver Gayton Youth Curator Program
Digital Quote Series
Historians On Hope
Past Events