ALERT Stay tuned for the next event.

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
Back to Nomination Categories

Complete the Nomination Form Here

    Nominee Information


    Nomination Evaluation

    Evaluation Instructions::Nominees are scored on the following criteria. When writing your narrative, provide as much detail as you can for each, and include any additional accomplishments or context that may not be listed.

  • Impact & Reach-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.

  • Leadership Initiative-Provide examples of the nominee's leadership qualities, innovative approaches, or initiatives they have taken. Describe how they have led others or pioneered new solutions.

  • Alignment with Category-Explain how the nominee's achievements and contributions specifically relate to and exemplify the chosen nomination category.

  • Community Endorsement-Describe any awards, recognition, testimonials, or support the nominee has received from their peers, community, or relevant organizations.

  • Legacy & Sustainability-Explain how the nominee's contributions will continue to benefit others in the future and the lasting impact of their work.

  • Nominator Information