2023 Celebration of Change

It was a year of firsts for Celebration: our first year back since the pandemic, and first time at the Rainier Arts Center. To be honest, we didn’t quite know what to be expect in response!

SAN KO FA is a West African word meaning “to retrieve.” It’s symbolized by a bird turning its head back with a golden egg in its mouth, and its feet firmly facing forward. The spirit of Sankofa takes from the past what is good, taking it into the present to make progress for the future.  

This year’s Celebration is unlike any others we’ve had before.  For 2023, it is a Celebration OF Change. It is a fitting theme that encompasses honoring the Coalition’s Executive Director, Merril Cousin, and her 24 years of leadership, a look back on 2023’s accomplishments, and looking ahead to what’s in store for the Coalition’s future.  

We’ll be celebrating at the Mt. Baker Community Club on Thursday May 11, 2023. Doors are open at 5:30 PM.  We invite you to celebrate with us in person and take time to reconnect with familiar faces and new friends. A livestream option will be made available as well.  

Celebration has been going strong for many years because our communities are adaptive, creative, and dedicated. We’d love to have you join us in celebrating Merril and share this historically memory in transitioning of leadership.