The Black Lens

The Black Lens The Black Lens is a newspaper, published monthly in Spokane, WA, focusing on news, events & people

“The recent conversations surrounding the Fifth Avenue Project reflect something deeper than development plans and infra...
06/09/2026

“The recent conversations surrounding the Fifth Avenue Project reflect something deeper than development plans and infrastructure discussions. They reflect a shared desire to see East Central thrive again, not just survive, but truly thrive.

When I talk about growth in East Central, I am not talking about erasing culture or pushing out longtime residents and businesses. I am talking about creating a neighborhood where families can afford to stay, where children can safely walk to parks and schools, where small businesses can succeed, and where residents can see beauty, investment, and opportunity reflected in their community.

The vision requires partnership.“

Read more about the ReFive Program from City Council President Betsy Wilkerson at blacklensnews.com.

06/07/2026
Second Annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant Crowns New QueenThe second annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant took place this evening ...
06/07/2026

Second Annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant Crowns New Queen

The second annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant took place this evening at Spokane Community College, where four remarkable young women competed for the title while demonstrating talent, confidence, and a commitment to academic excellence and community service.

Organized by a committee at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, the pageant provided a platform for young women to celebrate Black history, leadership, and education while honoring the significance of Juneteenth and the meaning of liberation.

Each contestant represented her family and community with grace, showcasing poise throughout the competition. The young women reflected on the importance of Juneteenth as a celebration of freedom, resilience, and progress.

The 2025 Miss Juneteenth Queen, Anesu Whacha of Shadle Park High School, relinquished her crown to Michaela Daou of Rogers High School, who was named Miss Juneteenth 2026.

The 2026 Miss Juneteenth Court also includes:

* 1st Place Princess: Makayla Roberson — Lewis and Clark High School
* 2nd Place Princess: Mojo Elewodalu — Lewis and Clark High School
* 3rd Place Princess: Sadie Troutt — Gonzaga Preparatory School

The pageant highlights Black history and cultural pride.

As part of their participation in the pageant, all members of the Miss Juneteenth Court will receive scholarships upon entering college, reinforcing the program’s commitment to opportunity and future success in both academic excellence and service to their communities.

Juneteenth remains a powerful reminder not only of freedom gained, but also of the responsibility to build a more just and equitable future for generations to come.

A huge congratulations to all the winners


Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA) hosted a meet and greet yesterday at the Saranac Building to share their work wit...
06/05/2026

Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA) hosted a meet and greet yesterday at the Saranac Building to share their work with the Spokane community and explain why access to affordable, quality health care matters.

Topics included for-profit health care, universal health care, medical debt, high ambulance and emergency room costs, and Spokane’s strong health quality scores across the state.

Board member Dr. Charina Carothers and Co-Executive Director Daphne Smith spoke with attendees about the importance of advocacy, policy, and community engagement.

Head over to blacklensnews.com to read our interview with Daphne Smith titled “Health Equity Is Collective Work”and learn more about the challenges and opportunities shaping health care access in our region.

Link in bio on IG.




This is happening on June 14th! Let’s support!!!!
06/03/2026

This is happening on June 14th! Let’s support!!!!

06/03/2026
This Saturday.
06/03/2026

This Saturday.

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800 N. Pearl Street
Spokane, WA
99258

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