Arts & Culture

This category honors Black individuals in Washington State who elevate the cultural landscape, through visual art, performance, storytelling, music, literature, or cultural preservation and build a deeper connection to heritage, identity, and expression. Who Should You Nominate? Nominate someone who:

Creates or leads exhibits, performances, festivals, or cultural programs that amplify Black voices and stories
Develops art, literature, or experiences that reflect and celebrate Black heritage, identity, or community
Mentors or nurtures emerging Black artists, writers, performers, or cultural practitioners

What Makes a Nominee Stand Out?

A body of work or program that inspires pride, reflection, and belonging across generations
Evidence of tangible impact, like expanded access to arts, community engagement, or enriched cultural understanding
Innovation, creativity, authenticity, and dedication to honoring Black cultural traditions and narratives

Include in Your Nomination:

The nominee’s creative or leadership role, e.g., “Founder of the Juneteenth Arts Festival,” “Lead Artist at [Gallery Name],” or “Youth Arts Mentor”
Examples of their work or program outcomes, exhibitions held, performances presented, stories preserved, or lives touched
Stories or testimonials from those influenced by their art or cultural leadership

Complete the Nomination Form

Nominee Information

Nominee Name

Nominee Email

Nominee Phone Number

Nominee Address

Nomination Category

Nomination Evaluation

Scoring Instructions:Please rate the nominee on each criterion using a scale of 1 to 5, where:

1 = Needs Improvement | 2 = Below Average | 3 = Average | 4 = Above Average | 5 = Exceptional

1. Impact & Reach

How significantly has the nominee influenced their community, field, or state? Consider depth and breadth of impact.

Please describe the nominee's influence and impact on their community, field, or state. Include specific examples of how their work has affected others and the scope of their influence.

Score (1-5)

2. Leadership & Initiative

Has the nominee demonstrated leadership, innovation, or initiative in their work or service?

Please describe the nominee's leadership and initiative

Score (1-5)

3. Alignment with Category

How well does the nominee's work align with the specific category's purpose and values?

Please describe how the nominee aligns with the selected category

Score (1-5)

4. Community Endorsement

Is there strong support or recognition from peers, community members, or organizations?

Please describe community support and recognition

Score (1-5)

5. Legacy & Sustainability

Does the nominee's work have lasting value or potential for continued impact?

Please describe the lasting impact and future value

Score (1-5)

Overall Evaluation

Additional Supporting Information
Any other relevant information that supports this nomination

Nominator Information

Your Name

Your Email

Your Phone Number

Your Relationship to Nominee

Additional Comments (optional)