Black Community in Vancouver

From early settlers like George Washington Bush and the Kaiser Shipyard’s inclusive World War II workforce to present-day business owners, the history of the Black community in Vancouver is longer and greater than most know. Organizations like the NAACP Vancouver Chapter survey these stories, educating and celebrating the accomplishments of Black individuals from Clark County. Additionally, Black-owned business owners continue to build within the community, opening restaurants, retail shops, wellness studios, and nonprofits.

BIPOC Mural

Local Black History Highlights

This timeline is from an exhibit initially put together by the Vancouver NAACP Branch #1139, community leader Claudia Star Carter, and was on display in front of the Clark County Historical Museum. Although the exhibit is no longer shown, you can learn about regional black history from the CCHM's permanent and rotating exhibits.

SWWA Black History Highlights by Visit Vancouver WA

Dig Deeper at the Museums Telling Black Stories

Annual Black Community Events

Support and celebrate Vancouver's Black community at these festivities.

Juneteenth Freedom Celebration

This free family event, held on June 19th or the Saturday before, features music, vendors, interactive history displays, and more. It celebrates the 1865 liberation of the last enslaved, an enduring tradition now recognized as a federal holiday.

Photo Credit: Odyssey World

Black History Month Fashion Show

Held annually in early February, celebrate creativity and heritage with a stunning runway show featuring young designers from PDDBM’s Fashion Design Afterschool Program. Enjoy an African Tribal Hairstyle Exhibit, Silent Auction, and more.

Photo Credit: PDDBM

Support Black-Owned Businesses

Whether you're visiting and looking for great dining, retail, or self-care services or want to explore other Black-owned businesses—both in-person and online—explore what the city has to offer.

Photo Credit: Daddy D's BBQ