Yakima Celebrates Annual Black History Month Luncheon in New Venue

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Yakima's annual Black History Month luncheon is moving to a new location this year - the Kaminsky Conference Center at Yakima Valley College. The event, hosted by the OIC of Washington, will feature delicious Soul Food, guest speakers, and a traveling Black history museum showcasing artifacts dating back to the 1700s. The keynote speaker is Fred Saffold, CEO and founder of the True Black History Museum, who is nationally recognized for his Black history presentations.

Why it matters

This event represents an opportunity for the Yakima community to come together and celebrate Black heritage and culture. The new venue at Yakima Valley College's conference center provides more space to accommodate the growing interest and attendance. The traveling museum and keynote speaker also aim to educate attendees about important moments and figures in Black history that have enriched the region and the country.

The details

The Black History Month luncheon will take place on Wednesday, February 25th at 11:30 a.m. at the Kaminsky Conference Center at Yakima Valley College. In addition to the Soul Food menu, the event will feature a "museum" exhibit opening at 11 a.m. showcasing historical artifacts and a keynote speech by Fred Saffold, CEO of the True Black History Museum, at noon. Local Black community leaders will also give speeches leading up to the keynote.

• The Black History Month luncheon takes place on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026.
• The traveling Black history museum exhibit opens at 11 a.m. on February 25th.
• The keynote speech by Fred Saffold is scheduled for 12 p.m. on February 25th.