Seattle City Council President Joy Hollingsworth has revealed her approach to budget advocacy, stating she works with both her district’s budget and a “Black budget” aimed at rectifying economic disparities within the Black community. She also issued a call for Black residents to unite and form “the most powerful political party” in Seattle.
Hollingsworth, who represents District 3, shared her strategy at the State of Africatown 2026 conference, an event focused on advancing Seattle’s Black community. Her remarks, which gained wider attention after being resurfaced by radio host Jason Rantz, detailed her efforts to ensure the “Black budget” is integrated into the city’s general budget allocations.
Advocating for Targeted Investments
During the conference, Hollingsworth explained her concept of the “Black budget,” detailing how she organized approximately 70 Black residents to testify during the city’s budget proceedings last year, an event she termed “Black Budget Day.” She emphasized the importance of visibility and advocacy for the Black community.
“It is important that they see us, that they hear us, that we just don’t show up for certain things that we are down here advocating for us,” Hollingsworth stated, highlighting the need for consistent representation and action.
Her comments come at a time when Seattle is facing a significant budget deficit, projected to be $140 million for the 2026 fiscal year. Mayor Katie Wilson has already directed city agencies to implement budget cuts ranging from 5% to 10% for the upcoming year.
Call for Political Cohesion
Hollingsworth articulated her vision for political empowerment, suggesting that a united Black community could become a formidable political bloc. “There are political parties in Seattle and I believe that if black people come to together, we can be the most powerful political party in the city of Seattle. We have to coalesce our power,” she urged the audience.
Radio host Jason Rantz sought clarification on the term “Black budget,” questioning its implications whether used literally or as a political strategy. He raised concerns about the potential for divisiveness, asking why similar targeted budgets were not advocated for other demographic groups.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Hollingsworth clarified that the “Black budget” refers to “targeted investments and resources directed toward historically impacted communities in Seattle.” She specified that these investments aim to address persistent challenges in areas such as public safety, infrastructure, small business support, park maintenance, road and sidewalk improvements, and workforce development.
Focus on City Basics
Hollingsworth reiterated her commitment to fundamental city services, stating, “In Seattle, we need to stay focused on delivering the city basics.” She noted that these are the core needs expressed by communities across the city, including safe streets, reliable infrastructure, responsive city services, and clean public spaces.
When asked about the specific allocation for the “Black budget” within Seattle’s overall $8.9 billion budget, Hollingsworth indicated that the entire city budget should reflect these targeted investments, stating, “8.9 billion dollars. The city’s budget.”
