As the finale of the Grant Drummers and Dancers mesmerizing performance faded into the air during the social hour, the energy in the room at the NAACP Freedom Fund Gala was palpable. Held amidst the backdrop of a community processing a contentious election season, this event wasn’t just a celebration – it was a balm, a gathering that sought to remind us of the power of collective resilience and purpose. The students from Grant Elementary School brought a cultural vibrancy that fostered connection and celebration to shared histories, while the honorees and speakers reminded everyone of the importance of community power.
Lisa Gardner, president of the Spokane NAACP, captured the essence of the evening in her opening displays of passion: “Being able to celebrate, (to) celebrate the Black excellence, and I think it’s time that we highlight all of the names that are under Black history.”
“So we gather today on the unceded lands of Indigenous peoples, and more specifically, the Spokane Tribe, honoring their enduring connection to this land and acknowledging the historical injustices they have faced,” a land acknowledgment delivered by Brandon T. Jones from KREM 2 News, emcee for the night.
He continued by raising the amplitude of restlessness, “Come together for this NAACP fundraiser, let’s commit ourselves to the ongoing fight for justice and equity, and may we strive to amplify the voices of Indigenous communities, descendants of the enslaved people, and all marginalized communities.
“Together, we honor their legacies and work towards a future grounded in respect, equality, and solidarity for all.”
The room responded with resounding applause, the audience sharing his sentiment of honoring both history and the present efforts of Spokane’s Black community.
The ceremony brought moments of reverence, with Pastor Benjamin Watson of Bethel A.M.E. Church leading a heartfelt libation in honor of African ancestors: “Divine Creator, source of all life and energy, we pour this libation in honor of our African ancestors who paved the way with their resilience, courage, and wisdom. We remember those who suffered and sacrificed for our freedom and dignity. Your spirits continue to guide us, and your legacy lives within us. To the ancestors, we honor you, the keepers of our history and culture.”
The celebration of Black excellence and community achievement was underscored by the presentation of three different award categories: the Community Champion Award (Stephaine Courtney, Walter Kendricks, Faith Washington, and Chauncey Jones), the Unsung Hero Award (Dr. Melissa Mace, Dr. Tanisha Morton, and Dr. Charina Carrothers) and the Spokane NAACP President’s Award, honoring two distinguished members of the Executive Committee (Fay Baptiste and Hadley Morrow). Each honoree’s story, example, and work ethic exemplifies a commitment to justice, equity, and education–powerful reminders of the community’s potential when achievement and unity spans over years of dedication.
Bringing smiles, tears, and admiration to the faces of the Spokane community was the announcement of the Michael P. Anderson Scholarship, which honors the legacy of the former U.S. Air Force pilot and NASA astronaut. This year’s recipient, Howard University freshman Birdie Bachman, was presented her award by 2020 recipient Mayah Eberhardt, now a senior at Eastern Washington University, to symbolize a full circle moment of progress and promise for the next generation of leaders.
The evening wasn’t only about reflection – it was a call to action. Hill Harper, keynote speaker for the night, emphasized the need for innovation and unity in addressing current challenges. He spoke candidly about overcoming fear and division, urging the audience to act boldly: “We need new ideas and innovation to improve the condition of marginalized communities. This work requires unity and collective action. Let’s act with courage and bring others along.”
Sparking different reactions from the community, you could hear “that’s right” and several harmonious “mmm-hmms” synchronized with head nods and claps in agreement to Harper’s electric words. Intergenerational solidarity was also a key component of this event, as four tables of high school students from the Mead and Spokane Public Schools districts were purchased to grant an opportunity for youth to bask in this special occasion. Many represented the Black Student Union at their high schools.
The Freedom Fund Gala was more than an event; it was a testament to the strength and resilience of the Black community and the allyship within the Spokane community. It served as a breath of fresh air and a place of healing for many, as a community grappled with election results from just four days prior in a historical race for the presidency, and all of the implications that follow.
As the evening concluded, the question lingered for me: What lies ahead? The gala offered a glimpse of the possibilities when a community comes together to honor its past, celebrate its present, and commit to building a future rooted in respect, equity, and collective strength. The Spokane community showed up not just to celebrate but to reaffirm its dedication to progress – proving once again that the road forward is paved with perseverance and unity. It starts with our voice.