Lift every voice and sing
Till earth and heaven ring
Ring with the harmonies of Liberty
Let our rejoicing rise
High as the listening skies
Let it resound loud as the rolling sea
— James Weldon Johnson
It’s the first day of Black History Month 2022 — a time for reflection, celebration, and action.
To help capture our theme of Making History, Building Community, we worked with Seattle-based artist Damon Brown to create Intentionalist’s Black History Month art.
“[The] illustration is inspired by James Weldon Johnson, ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing.’ I want my piece to do the same — to encourage community and relationship building by one another,” Damon said. “With the current social climate, any form of empathy can keep heads held high, to remind us to stay strong in these times. When strong connections/bonds are created, it can help ease the pain it causes mentally and physically.
As a Black artist, I draw inspiration from my life, history, culture, community, and current events. I’ve lived through the inequalities, pain, and struggles that my city and community repeatedly face. I want people to feel a sense of pride and belongingness when they see my art and my message.”
Black-owned small businesses are community hubs where people come together and lift up one another, whether to celebrate, organize, or simply connect in a safe and inclusive space.
We’ve teamed up with Seattle Storm, Seattle Sounders FC, OL Reign, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Mariners, and Seattle Kraken on two fun ways to explore and #SpendLikeItMatters in support of the Black-owned small businesses at the heart of our communities.
1. Receipt & Receive
Upload your receipts when you #SpendLikeItMatters at small Black-owned business all throughout February, and you’ll get a chance to win prizes from some of your favorite Seattle sports teams. Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, Seattle Seahawks, OL Reign, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Kraken, and Intentionalist want to encourage the community to buy from local Black-owned local businesses during Black History Month and beyond.
This year, our goal is to collectively spend $20,000 — help us reach our goal by uploading your receipts today!
2. Save 20% on Gift Certificates to Black-owned Businesses
Thanks to support from Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Kraken, and OL Reign, you can receive 20% gift certificates to Black-owned businesses via Intentionalist’s Gift Certificate Marketplace from February 18-28. Stay tuned for the code to use use at checkout!
We’re also celebrating Black History Month with BECU. Learn more about the Equity in Action small business tabs and how BECU members can enjoy free eats and treats from Black-owned small businesses.
Keep an eye on our blog and our Instagram and Facebook as we announce more ways we’re celebrating Black History Month throughout February!