On July 31, 2022, the Starbucks on Jackson, a Central District staple, closed permanently in response to “safety concerns” as gun violence and violent crime spiked in the neighborhood. Nearly three years later, the location seemingly remains vacant, though behind those tinted windows Black Coffee Northwest faces countless hurdles. “there’s so much data that shows most black businesses don’t get access to capital… all the red tape that’s been put up… that’s the reason for the delays,” DarNesha Weary, the CEO of Black Coffee Northwest said. Amidst the recent uptick in CD gun violence, Weary emphasized the dire need for community oriented spaces, “back in the day, it was a safe place… we didn’t have this high gun violence, what we’re seeing now is the true effects of gentrification in our communities. We want Black Coffee to be a place for people to see and know it’s a safe place,” Weary said. Despite the numerous factors preventing Black Coffee Northwest’s opening, Weary remains hopeful.
Acquiring the highly sought-after location seemed to fall into place for the small business. “When Starbucks did give up that space because the staff was being unionized, I heard they closed and I went on Facebook and posted that I wanted that location,” Weary said. Weary went on to illustrate how another black business owner came across the post, and connected her with someone to assist her in obtaining the location. Weary opened her first coffee shop north of 23rd and Jackson, on North Seattle College’s campus in 2020 with the funding being sourced from a won settlement, ironically, on the basis of racism against a previous employer.
Weary continued to stress that despite uncertainty regarding an official opening, she holds firm to her undoubtable commitment. Black Coffee Northwest has more to offer than witty drink names like the “Blackaccino” and the “Karen” white mocha Weary makes a clear effort to vocalize both the experiences of small black businesses, and the importance of community-led spaces in neighborhoods like the CD. “We’re not just a coffee place, we’re so much more, really a gathering place and catalyst for change in the community.” Weary said.
Countless times, Weary highlighted her plans to incorporate youth in Black Coffee Northwest to make an everlasting impact. From youth centered programs to hip-hop trivia game nights, Black Coffee Northwest’s plans prove to have no limit. “Your voice is so important, I’m not building it for myself, I’m building it for this next generation as well,” Weary said. Weary intentionally visualizes a completely forgotten side of the Central District, one where coffee can, once again, be grounds for change.
