<< This Month’s Freedom Day >> 
Freedom Day is NAAM’s monthly free admission day, honoring the history, culture, and movements that continue to shape the pursuit of freedom for all.
Building Power Through Community
The Black Panther Party, founded in 1966 in Oakland, became a powerful force for community care and political action. By 1968, Seattle established the first chapter outside of California, helping expand the movement across the Pacific Northwest.
As the Party grew, its impact was shaped by local chapters. In cities like Seattle and Portland, “survival programs” provided free breakfast for children, healthcare, and other essential services, many led by women within the movement. The Seattle chapter helped sustain this work across the region, supporting organizing efforts in Tacoma, Portland, and Eugene.
This work reflects a broader legacy of community care and collective action that continues to shape how freedom is practiced today.
Did You Know?
Free Breakfast Program
The Black Panther Party’s Free Breakfast Program grew to serve thousands of children across the country each week and influenced the creation of federally funded school breakfast programs.
Community Medical Clinics
The Seattle chapter established one of the first community medical clinics in the region focused on serving Black and underserved populations.
Portland Organizing
In Portland, the Black Panther Party played a key role in advocating for tenant rights and access to basic services in the Albina neighborhood.
Panther Newspaper
The Black Panther Party published a weekly newspaper that reached a circulation of over 100,000, helping share political education and community updates nationwide.
