10/11/2026
54 YEARS OF BUILDING THE BELOVED COMMUNITY
Founded on October 11, 1972, El Centro de la Raza (The Center for People of All Races) began with a nonviolent occupation of an abandoned school building on Seattle’s Beacon Hill, led by a multiracial coalition of community members, including Chicano and Latino adult basic education students, and rooted in the civil rights, faith, and anti-war movements. Their collective action, courage, and vision for a more just and equitable society laid the foundation for an enduring community institution.
More than five decades later, El Centro de la Raza continues to advance that vision through affordable housing, small business development, child care, and 43 programs and services supporting individuals and families across King County.
As we honor our history and look toward the future, we remain grounded in the values that guide our work: dignity, justice, equity, cultural identity, and collective care. These values strengthen our relationships, unite our communities, and sustain our commitment to a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
For 54 years, our strength has come from the people, partnerships, and communities who continue this work together. We honor the vision of those who came before us while carrying their legacy forward for generations to come.
Happy 54th Anniversary, El Centro de la Raza!
Mil gracias to our community, supporters, partners, and the generations who continue Building the Beloved Community with us.
https://vimeo.com/686895720?fl=pl&fe=sh
El Centro de la Raza (The Center for All Races) started in 1972 with a non-violent occupation of an abandoned school building in Seattle's Beacon Hill neighborhood. Fifty years later, the El Centro community is successfully building & supporting affordable housing, thriving small businesses, child c...