Our Mission

We are a non-profit organization promoting African American arts and cultural events primarily in the greater Seattle area.

Our Vision

Cultural Pursuits envisions a world in which people of every nation and tongue can find a spiritual connection that encourages love and peace.  We believe the music of the enslaved Africans in America is a proven catalyst for soothing the soul.  The Negro Spiritual in particular demonstrates the indomitable nature of the human spirit. And, we are convinced that an increased awareness and understanding of the rich African American cultural heritage will enhance the spirituality of all.

Where We Are

In 2004, the performing arm of Cultural Pursuits (The Sound of the Northwest) has successfully produced Two CD recordings in an ambitious 5-year project to record a collection of Negro Spirituals based on the themes of Faith, Love, and Hope.  The selections include arrangements of spirituals and compositions of songs in the spiritual style; all by African Americans.  "Faith" offers works by past and contemporary giants such as H.T. Burleigh, William Dawson, Jester Hairston, Moses Hogan, and Undine S. Moore. "The Gift: Love, Part 1" introduces a unique collection of spirituals and songs on the Christmas theme - God the Father so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son.  This group of composer/arrangers adds more giants including Roland Carter, Willis L. James, Noah Ryder, Andre Thomas, and John Work. The Sound's next scheduled recording entitled "The Gift: Love, Part 2" will focus on the Easter theme - God the Son so loved the world that He gave His life for our sins and rose from the grave for our redemption.

Future Events

In addition to the activities of The Sound, Cultural Pursuits (CP) has several programs, projects, and events under development.  In 2009, CP will sponsor “Cain't No One Know,” a theatrical “Edutainment” event designed to enlighten and entertain at the SAM in January.   CNOK will feature music, dance, poetry, the spoken word, and drama!  Also, a statewide tour is shaping up in February-March 2009 for the return to the Pacific Northwest of “Harriet’s Return.”   HR is an extraordinary one-woman recreation of the legendary life of the Underground Railroad conductor, Harriet Tubman by award-winning author, actress, and producer, Karen Jones Meadows.  You will be astounded as Meadows matures through the play while introducing twenty other characters.   Many of you will recall Harriet’s last visit here in 2005 at the Intiman Theatre.   Watch your mail or email or this site for more details on these events.

Future plans for CP include the production of a documentary on the extraordinary life of Jester Hairston, a mini-concert series with course materials for children in grades K-12, and a radio show harking back to the storied Wings Over Jordan with theologians, music historians and others discussing the story(ies) behind the Negro Spiritual.  Events include the production of Scott Joplin's opera, “Treemonisha,” and an original multi-media show entitled Easter Revisited, to name a few.