Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

SistahBoss Launches Program To Empower Black Women Leaders In Pacific NW

Seattle natives Mary Wideman-Williams and her daughter Marquinta Obomanu have inaugurated SistahBoss, a leadership initiative dedicated to empowering Black women through connection, growth, and mutual support. The organization offers mentorship, coaching, and workshops designed to enhance leadership skills while affirming identity and shared experiences. SistahBoss is at the forefront of redefining leadership paradigms for Black women in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Public Library Expands Free Tutoring Services For K-12 Students

The Seattle Public Library has launched an initiative to provide free, drop-in tutoring and study support for K-12 students at nine branches citywide through its Homework Help program. This effort seeks to address the challenges of accessing affordable academic support, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related disruptions. Elisa Murray, Communications Strategist for The Seattle Public Library, will elaborate on the expansion of this crucial resource and its role in enhancing educational accessibility for all students.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Congress Probes HUD Amid Claims Of Fair Housing Law Erosion

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) faces allegations of undermining fair housing protections, a foundational element of civil rights for nearly sixty years. Whistleblower complaints and congressional investigations have highlighted concerns regarding potential erosion of these safeguards. Charlene Crowell will address this pressing issue on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Community Groups Mobilize Voter Education Ahead Of Election

Byrd Barr Place, one of Seattle's oldest and most trusted community organizations, is organizing a Candidates Forum aimed at empowering residents to engage directly with electoral candidates. This initiative provides a platform for voters to pose questions and gain insights into the candidates' positions on critical issues affecting their daily lives. The forum represents a broader movement by community groups to enhance voter awareness and participation as the election season draws near.

Dr. Angela Griffin, CEO of Byrd Barr Place joins us for today's Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about to talk about this important civic engagement effort.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

October Highlights Urgent Need For Breast Cancer Awareness Among Black Women

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the urgent need for early detection and support, particularly among Black women who face significant disparities in health outcomes. Despite progress in treatment and awareness, Black women are diagnosed with more aggressive breast cancer at younger ages and have a nearly 40% higher mortality rate compared to their white counterparts. Public Health - Seattle & King County is actively addressing these racial health gaps, focusing on initiatives that promote early detection and provide support to those affected within Black communities.

Callista Kennedy, with Public Health — Seattle & King County joins us for today's Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about breast cancer awareness, early detection, and what’s being done to close these racial health gaps.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Metro League Football Highlights Resilience And Leadership

As Week 5 of the Metro League football season approaches, the competition is intensifying with several compelling narratives emerging. Among the highlights are O'Dea's esteemed Coach Monte Kohler, Ballard's exceptional quarterback Elli Gebbie, and the remarkable recoveries of athletes at Rainier Beach. Additionally, the impactful leadership of newly appointed coaches at Roosevelt and Franklin has garnered attention. Seattle Medium journalist Kiara Doyal has been meticulously documenting the season, offering in-depth profiles on players, coaches, and the captivating stories that unfold under the Friday night lights.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Concerns Over Posse Comitatus Act Arise With Trump's Troop Deployment

The deployment of the National Guard into U.S. cities under President Donald Trump has ignited significant controversy, leading to protests, legal challenges, and concerns over potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits military involvement in civilian law enforcement. Seattle is preparing for the potential arrival of federal troops, despite local officials highlighting a decrease in crime and the absence of civil unrest. This decision has faced criticism for opposing the preferences of governors and mayors and for contributing to the militarization of policing efforts. Civil rights leader, historian, and political commentator, Dr. Carl Mack, has more on this issue.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black Press At Pivotal Moment Ahead Of 200th Anniversary

For nearly two centuries, the Black Press has served as a trusted voice for Black America, chronicling stories and speaking truth to power. As it nears its 200th anniversary, its continued existence hinges on collective support. Attorney Ben Crump has pledged $50,000 to the Black Press, urging others to follow suit. Hazel Trice Edney, Editor-in-Chief of the Trice Edney News Wire, underscores the critical role of the Black Press and the urgent need for its support.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Podcast: President Trump's Move To Dismiss Fed Governor Sparks Controversy

Governor Lisa Cook, the first Black woman appointed to the Federal Reserve in its 113-year history, faces a contentious removal effort that has ignited national debate. President Trump has declared his intention to dismiss her, and the Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation, despite the absence of documented misconduct. This controversy underscores the critical need for diverse representation in economic policymaking and raises concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett,

Seattle Event Legacy In Motion Gala Hosted By Byrd Barr Place

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its second annual fundraising gala, Legacy in Motion: Resistance Through Reclamation, on September 27 at the Hyatt Regency in Seattle. The event will convene community leaders, advocates, and supporters for an evening dedicated to celebration and reflection. Dr. Angela Griffin, president and CEO of Byrd Barr Place, will address attendees about the significance of the event.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.