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King County District 2: History is Made Here
King County Council Appoints Rhonda Lewis, Making History with First Black Woman and First Majority-Woman Council
August 28, 2026
August is National Black Business Month, and I’m proud to take this opportunity to recognize the Black entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders who help make our neighborhoods vibrant and connected.
Click on the image above for access to the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle’s Black Business Directory!
Black-owned businesses have long been more than places to shop or services to use. They have created jobs, supported local families, and served as gathering places for communities. Their history is also a story of perseverance. Even in the face of barriers to capital and opportunity, Black entrepreneurs have continued to innovate and create businesses that strengthen the communities around them.
Meet Chef and Owner of Communion Restaurant & Bar, Kristi Brown. Communion is a delicious restaurant in Central District serving Southern-rooted, Pacific Northwest–inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, brunch, and dinner. Click on the image above to learn more about Communion Restaurant & Bar!
Here in District 2, we are fortunate to have Black-owned businesses contributing to the character and economic vitality of our neighborhoods every day. Supporting these businesses means investing directly in the people who live, work, and build their futures in our community.
Click on the image above for access to the Northwest African American Museum’s Black Business Directory!
The history of Black entrepreneurship in Seattle and King County is deeply connected to the history of community-building. As Black families moved to the region, particularly during the Great Migration and World War II, they created businesses, churches, cultural institutions, and community organizations that became essential gathering places and sources of support. When discrimination and segregation limited where Black residents could live, work, and do business, Black communities built their own networks and institutions to meet those needs.
Meet Valerie, the founder of Valerie Madison, a high-quality Jewelry store in Seattle selling rings, wedding bands, necklaces, custom pieces and more! Click on the image above to learn more.
That legacy can still be seen throughout District 2 today. The Liberty Bank Building, for example, carries the legacy of what was once the first Black-owned bank west of the Mississippi, providing financial services to people and businesses who had historically been excluded from traditional banking. Today, the building continues that legacy by providing affordable housing.
Meet Solomon Dubie, founder of Cafe Avole! Cafe Avole has two locations in District 2, the University District and Central District, serving delicious Ethiopian coffee, smoothies, pastries, and more.
This August, let’s celebrate Black-owned businesses not only for what they contribute today, but for the legacy they are creating for generations to come. Continue to support Black-owned businesses throughout the month of August, and all year long!
Zara Jo Beauty Supply is a Black-owned beauty store in Seattle’s Central District, created to make textured and natural hair care more accessible, welcoming, and community-centered. They offer a wide selection of hair, skincare, makeup, wellness, and beauty products, with a focus on Black-owned and Black-founded brands. Click on the image to learn more!
It is my honor to represent you on the King County Council.
You are always welcome to contact my office at 206 477-1002 or Rhonda.lewis@kingcounty.gov.
My D2 team looks forward to assisting you.
Sincerely,
 Rhonda Lewis, Councilmember
Metropolitan King County Council, District 2
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