Press release
Northwest African American Museum and Comcast Announce Partnership for Children's Book
--News Direct--Comcast is announcing, through the commission of the Northwest African American Museum, a children’s book curated for children in grade school
About this update from Comcast Corporation
[{"type":"text","content":"--News Direct--Comcast is announcing, through the commission of the Northwest African American Museum, a children’s book curated for children in grade school titled Hakeem’s Song to be released later in 2023. In honor of Black History Month, Comcast is donating $35,000 to develop, publish, distribute, and promote the book by recognized author, educator, and poet laureate, Dr. Mona Lake Jones, known affectionally as “Grandhoney” to children and the community is authoring. Hakeem's Song encourages self-esteem, celebration of Black identity, inclusion, and compassion. The content of the book is being developed for a primary grade reading audience and will be distributed to students in Seattle Public Schools and beyond. Hakeem’s Song will be officially released in 2023, with author readings at Seattle Public Schools and book giveaways. The book continues a partnership between Comcast and the Northwest African American Museum. “Being able to create a children’s book from scratch which shares a meaningful story for children in Seattle is a dream come true. We are so thankful Comcast is helping us bring this vision to life,” said LaNesha DeBardelaben, president and CEO of Northwest African American Museum.“Addressing education disparities in our communities, especially with communities of color, is a significant priority for Comcast in Washington state and Seattle. The Northwest African American Museum is a pillar of the community for showcasing African American art, culture, and history in the Pacific Northwest and an incredible community partner to work with,” said Diem Ly, Community Impact and External Affairs director, Comcast. The author of Hakeem’s Song, Dr. Mona Lake Jones, has served as the poet laureate for the City of Seattle and King County. Her experience as a community activist coupled with her writing talent and presentation skills has gained her a national reputation. She has several published books and is described by The Seattle Times as “Maya Angelou of the Pacific Northwest.”This effort is part of Comcast NBC Universal’s Black History Month celebration honoring Black changemakers. This month and all year long, Comcast NBCUniversal is honoring Black changemakers by highlighting how innovators of the past have paved the road for culture shifters today and beyond. By highlighting Black business owners, sharing the stori...