The following description comes from the event organizer.

Somali Cultural Center (SCC), featuring special guests Boyah Farah, author of “How America Made Me Black,” and Hanad Abdi, a pioneering first-generation Somali American actor.

Seattle, Washington, April 27, 2024 – The Somali Cultural Center (SCC), a new Arts and NGO entity dedicated to celebrating Somali culture and fostering a more inclusive arts community, is thrilled to announce its official inauguration. This milestone event takes place in Seattle and extends its reach to South King County, Snohomish County and Pierce County, marking a significant advancement in the representation and inclusion of Somali artists, organizers, and storytellers within the broader arts scene.

Purpose: The SCC is established to address the underrepresentation of Somali voices in the arts by merging art with activism. Through a series of inspirational lectures, workshops, and events, the center aims to facilitate civic participation and cultural exchange. These activities are designed not only to engage but also to enlighten the community, highlighting the contributions of Somali culture to the rich, diverse cultural fabric of our collective existence.

Additionally, the SCC is committed to offering culturally resonant arts programming and educational workshops to communities of African descent and/or diaspora. By acknowledging the unique challenges these communities face, the SCC leverages the transformative power of art for healing, self-expression, and community cohesion, thus nurturing a sense of inclusion and connectivity.

Flagship Program: The highlight of the SCC’s inaugural activities, “Somali Arts and Culture: A Journey of Healing and Empowerment,” will be held at The Roadhouse on April 27th. This event serves as a tribute to Somali arts and culture, showcasing a vibrant array of visual arts, music, storytelling, and panel discussions. Special guests include renowned author Boyah Farah and trailblazing actor Hanad Abdi, both of whom represent the depth and diversity of Somali artistic and cultural contributions.

Message from the Executive Director: “We are excited to unveil the Somali Cultural Center to the public and to further the appreciation of Somali arts and culture in our community,” said Abdirahman Yussuf, Executive Director of the SCC. “Our belief in the power of art to transform lives and bridge cultural divides is at the heart of our mission. We invite everyone to join us in this journey of learning, creativity, and healing.”

Attendance: The SCC’s programs and events are free and open to the public, underscoring the center’s dedication to creating a welcoming space for all individuals to gather, learn, and create.