The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle(ULMS) will host its 23rd Annual Breakfast, themed "Era of Essential Service," on Friday, November 22, at the Seattle Convention Center Summit. Academy Award-nominated and Golden Globe-winning actor, filmmaker, and activist Taraji P. Henson will be the keynote speaker. This breakfast not only celebrates ULMS’s profound impact on the community but also serves as a crucial fundraiser to support its diverse programs, which empower historically underserved populations in Seattle.



“Our primary goal with this breakfast is to raise the critical funds needed to sustain the essential services and direct programs that ULMS has provided for over 90 years,” said Josalyn P. Ford, ULMS Chief Advancement Officer. “In addition, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and thriving community while ensuring that our work aligns with the evolving needs of those we serve. We aim to set the standard, welcoming others who share our beliefs to join us in advancing the Urban League’s vision and upholding the values at the core of our mission.”



This breakfast is a cornerstone event for the Urban League, showcasing the organization’s dedication to social and economic justice. ULMS focuses on seven key areas: advocacy and civic engagement, education, housing, public health, entrepreneurship support, financial empowerment, and workforce development. These initiatives are designed to uplift Black and other historically underserved communities by providing access to essential resources and opportunities.



Last year’s event featured comedian and Emmy award-winning host Trevor Noah, helping ULMS raise nearly $1 million and drawing over 1,400 attendees in the largest event at the Westin Seattle since the pandemic. This year, the organization expects an even larger turnout, with 2,500 attendees anticipated. Henson’s participation is expected to elevate the event’s impact, leveraging her influence and dedication to community advocacy.

Taraji P. HensonHere, widely recognized for her roles in *Hustle & Flow* and the hit series *Empire*, has been a longtime advocate for mental health and education. In 2018, she founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named in honor of her late father, with a mission to address mental health challenges within the African American community. The foundation offers scholarships to African American students pursuing careers in mental health, provides services to youth in urban schools, and works to reduce recidivism rates among African American men and women. Her dedication to mental health awareness is also reflected in her Emmy-nominated series *Peace of Mind with Taraji*, underscoring her commitment to fostering understanding and support for these critical issues.



“We chose Taraji because of her bold and compassionate advocacy for the people,” said Michelle Merriweather, ULMS President & CEO. “It’s not easy for Black women to reach the level of success and influence that she has. Taraji embodies the spirit of a trusted friend who understands the pulse of the community she stands for, bringing everyone along with her. Her ability to connect with people and make her voice heard mirrors the trust and respect we strive to earn in everything we do within the community.”