Tensions Erupt During Olympia’s Black History Month Proclamation

The Olympia City Council’s proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month was marred by conflict on February 3, 2024. The event, intended to celebrate the heritage of Black Americans, devolved into a heated exchange between Mayor Dontae Payne and invited speaker Javoen Byrd, who accused an unspecified council member of racism.

The meeting commenced with the council reading the proclamation, which acknowledged the significance of Black History Month and its 100th anniversary. Byrd, the Executive Director of the Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture, spoke passionately about the historical racism faced by Black Americans. He highlighted the misuse of federal authority against citizens, framing it as a persistent issue for the Black community.

Byrd’s comments took a confrontational turn when he stated, “You thought by inviting me here today, you’d teach a big (n-—) a lesson?” This remark prompted Mayor Payne to intervene, attempting to regain control of the meeting. The mayor expressed his frustration, saying, “I am trying really hard to stay calm, but I am furious about what happened here.” His attempts to redirect the conversation were met with further interruptions from Byrd.

As tensions escalated, Byrd continued his remarks despite Mayor Payne cutting his microphone. The disruption lasted nearly half an hour, overshadowing the intended reverence of the event. After calling for a recess, Payne returned to the meeting and addressed Byrd directly, stating, “I have never been more disrespected by anyone in this city than in that particular moment right here in the dais in this room by another Black man on Black History Month.”

Byrd responded with a series of comments aimed at the mayor, suggesting a personal connection to the issues being discussed. Payne reiterated his position, emphasizing the need for respect during city council meetings. “Calling a council member a racist in public is disrespectful,” he asserted. Byrd later clarified that he had not named any specific council member in his comments.

Following the tumultuous exchange, the council resumed its agenda. Payne took a moment to apologize to his colleagues and attendees for the lack of decorum displayed during the meeting. He highlighted the importance of respecting one another and maintaining the integrity of the discussion, especially in relation to such a significant occasion as Black History Month.

City Council Member Kelly Green expressed her support for Payne, acknowledging the challenges he faced as Olympia’s first Black mayor. “I’m sorry that you had to go through that,” she stated, emphasizing the need for educational and constructive dialogue moving forward.

Despite the disruption, plans for the Black History Month event organized by the Hawk Foundation, in partnership with the Olympia School District and the city, remain on track. Scheduled for February 20, 2024, at the Washington Center for Performing Arts, the event will feature keynote speaker Dr. Joy DeGruy. It aims to focus on dismantling systemic racism in education and is expected to provide a family-friendly environment for community members.

Payne concluded with a call to action for Olympia residents, urging them to educate themselves on the significance of Black History Month and to recognize its importance beyond just February. As the city moves forward, the council hopes to foster a more respectful and inclusive atmosphere in upcoming discussions.