Empty Shell, Powerful Promise: Angela Rye at Colman Commons
Angela Rye discusses future plans for Colman Commons prior to her appearance on The Pop-Up! (Photo: Paul Sanders)
Before the lights were hung, before the walls were dressed in art, and before the warmth of community filled every corner, Colman Commons was a raw space—an empty shell pulsing with quiet power and immense potential.
Yesterday, we had the profound privilege of welcoming a true daughter of Seattle back home to step inside that raw space and see the potential firsthand: national political strategist, advocate, attorney, and CEO of IMPACT Strategies, Angela Rye.
Angela joined us in Pioneer Square as a featured guest on Converge Media’s The Pop-Up! alongside Seattle hip-hop legend Papa Black Davinci. Before stepping onto set with host Omari Salisbury (The Big O), Colman Commons Director Ashleigh McCurdy gave Angela and Papa a personal tour through our unfinished space to share the blueprint for what this building is set to become.
A Seattle Legend Steps Into the Blueprint
For those familiar with Angela Rye’s work on the national stage, her deep roots in Seattle remain central to who she is. Born and raised right here in the Emerald City—a graduate of Holy Names Academy, the University of Washington, and Seattle University School of Law—Angela learned the principles of civic engagement, advocacy, and truth-telling on these very streets. She has since taken that unapologetic voice to Washington D.C. as former Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus, onto national networks like CNN and ESPN, and across platforms like The Breakfast Club and Native Land Pod.
Having a leader who stands at the intersection of national policy, social justice, and cultural defense walk across our unfinished concrete floor was more than just a casual visit; it was a powerful affirmation of the foundation we are laying.
Walking the Shell with Ashleigh & Papa Black Davinci
As Ashleigh McCurdy guided Angela and Papa Black Davinci past exposed framing and bare walls, the conversation wasn't centered on what was missing—it was focused entirely on what was being manifested:
A Sanctuary for Independent Black Media: A home where authentic, community-focused storytelling can thrive on its own terms without asking for permission.
An Economic Engine for the Culture: A self-sustaining event venue designed to keep resources circulating directly back into our local neighborhood.
A Gathering Place for Pioneer Square: A dedicated cultural anchor in heart-of-the-city Seattle where local leaders, creatives, and neighbors can come together to organize, celebrate, and build.
Seeing Angela look past the dust and immediately connect with the heart of this project was deeply inspiring. When someone who spends her life advocating for Black power and equity globally looks at an empty room and recognizes its necessity, it reinforces why physical space matters so deeply.
"When you build a space intentionally rooted in community, you aren't just opening doors—you are establishing a fortress for our stories, our culture, and our collective power."
Why Colman Commons Is Essential
Seattle has long needed gathering places that belong unequivocally to the people who shape its culture. Too often, spaces of high impact in our city are transient or transactional. Colman Commons was conceived as a permanent home—a place where milestone celebrations happen, where independent media is produced, and where leaders from every walk of life can pull up a chair.
Having visionaries like Angela Rye and Papa Black Davinci pour their energy and belief into this venue while it was still just a dream in progress gives us momentum.
What Lies Ahead
We extend our deepest gratitude to Angela Rye for coming home, bringing her brilliant insights to The Pop-Up!, and taking the time to envision what Colman Commons will mean for Seattle.
As construction continues and we move closer to grand opening day, we carry her encouragement with us. The shell won't remain empty for long—and we cannot wait to welcome the entire community inside.
To stay updated on our progress toward opening day, or to inquire about booking your future gatherings at Colman Commons, visit us at www.ColmanCommons.com.
Watch The Pop-Up! Episode with Angela Rye and Papa Black Davinci.
