Legacy is a M.U.S.T.

This November, we are thankful for the individuals who have made a lasting impact on Black culture and the community, here in Seattle.

Originally from San Francisco, CA, Roberto Jourdan was recruited to play Football for the University of Washington in Seattle, where his roots remain today. After retiring from firefighting, where he also led the Black Firefighters department, he has spent his time as president to two vital organizations of Black legacy in Seattle:

Festival Sundiata (pronounced: Soon-jah-tah) — the longest running African American festival celebrated in the Pacific Northwest and Seattle (involved / president for 20+ years)

Royal Esquire Club in the heart of Columbia City — a private African American men’s club in Seattle (president since 2015)

When he speaks of being a part of revitalizing Seattle’s Black legacy, both voluntary roles he serves with true joy:

“Being able to be part of something within the Black community that expands your lifestyle, makes things better for you and makes you smile, no matter what race you are… all for the betterment [of your community]” keeps him motivated.

When talking to Roberto, his voice immediately puts you at ease and you cannot help but smile along with him. His wise words translate to the way he speaks of his motivation to care for himself: to be healthy for his family, both physically and mentally. Oftentimes, witnessing the health of someone’s family speaks volumes to their own health — this is Roberto.

He prioritizes his self-care and stays motivated because of his love for his family and community. “You wanna be there for [your family], the way you are living, being the best place you are physically and mentally… [You want your children to say,] “He was always there when I needed him, in a positive vein.” At the same time Roberto says seeing them continue to strive allows him to “use [my children] to boost myself up and know what [I am] doing it for.”

His parting words to the young Black males in the M.U.S.T. community:

“What we do is worry about how we look or how we seem to somebody else… [but remember] there is somebody that would trade places with you. [We should focus on] doing the best you can with what you got.”

To learn more about the Royal Esquire Club: royalesquireclub.com

To learn more about Festival Sundiata: seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/festal/festival-sundiata