Black History Month isn’t just something you see on posters or morning announcements. All around Tacoma, people and places are celebrating Black voices, creativity, and stories in ways that feel alive and close to home. This month, I decided to explore a few of these spaces and see how our community honors Black history—not just in February, but all year long.

My first stop was the Black Night Market at the Tacoma Armory. Even though it only started in 2022, it has already become a huge space for BIPOC creators to sell their art, products, and services. The market has supported more than 2,500 BIPOC-owned businesses and 250 performers across Pierce and King County. Walking in, you can feel the energy—music playing, people laughing, and vendors proudly sharing the work they’ve built from scratch. The market was created to give visibility, opportunity, and space for voices that often go unheard, which connects strongly to the values of equity, belonging, and community voice that we care about at Mount Tahoma.

I also got the chance to talk with two business owners about their work and what inspires them. Hearing their stories showed me how much courage and creativity it takes to build something of your own. If you want to learn more, the organizers share updates at blacknightmarket.com.

My next stop was the 4th Annual TCC Black Artists Exhibition at Tacoma Community College. The gallery is filled with artwork created by students and local artists who use painting, sculpture, digital art, and photography to express their emotions, experiences, and cultural identity. What really stood out to me were the descriptions next to each piece. Reading them made the art feel more personal and helped me understand the deeper meaning behind the colors, symbols, and details.

The exhibit is open through March 13, 2026, and you can find hours on the TCC website. I really recommend checking it out—it’s quiet, powerful, and full of artistic expression that reflects values like empathy, respect, and honoring our cultures.

Exploring these events reminded me how much talent and history exists right here in Tacoma. Black History Month isn’t only about looking back—it’s also about celebrating the people who are shaping our community today. And when we show up to support them, we help create a community that’s more connected, creative, and full of hope.

Read more stories from The Tower