For this month’s Community Corner, the Seattle Human Services Department (HSD) is celebrating the start of Healthy Aging Month by spotlighting the work of one of the advocacy councils for which HSD provides staff support. These boards and commissions are comprised of service-minded individuals and subject matter experts whose experience and perspectives advise City officials decision making on important issues.
The Mayor’s Council on African American Elders (MCAAE) is an advisory council established in 1995 by former Mayor Norman B. Rice to oversee the development of a continuum of services to address the needs of older African Americans. Today, it provides recommendations to the Mayor, Council, and City departments on issues impacting Black elders, ensuring their needs and experiences inform policies and priorities.
Chaired by Pamela Williams, a Long-Term Care Ombudsman with more than four decades of experience in eldercare, MCAAE members are a remarkable assembly of community leaders. They have expertise in public service, nonprofits, academia, and personal lived experience. Their collective goal is to strengthen connections and elevate the voices of African American elders across Seattle.
What the MCAAE advocates for
The MCAAE champions policies that address racial disparities and promote healthy aging. Their general priorities are:
- Affordable and stable housing
- Access to culturally relevant food and nutrition
- Support for caregivers
- Social connection and community belonging
In 2026, MCAAE priorities include publicizing and expanding property tax exemptions that protect older adults from displacement, lifting the voices of African American caregivers in public policy, and improving access to culturally relevant nutrition resources like the City’s Fresh Bucks and congregate meal programs.
These were among the topics discussed at the Aug. 26 MCAAE meeting with special guest Seattle Councilmember Dionne Foster. They engaged in a lively discussion on affordable housing, caregiver support, and City investments in community spaces and recreation programs that center Black older adults.
How MCAAE engages the community
MCAAE members participate in forums, events, and gatherings hosted by community partners to gather public input and share information.
They also help organize the Legacy of Love: African American Caregivers Forum, an annual event that celebrates African American caregivers and connects families with information, resources and community support. Presented during National Family Caregivers Month each November, it is co-hosted by the MCAAE, HSD’s Aging and Disabilities Services division, and Age Friendly Seattle.
The Legacy of Love forum is a culturally focused event that draws family caregivers from throughout the Pacific Northwest. By sharing stories and experiences, they build connections that help them face the challenges of caring for a family member with a serious illness or disability. It reminds all to recognize, support, and empower family caregivers; to find balance in providing care despite the demands of work and family; and to access a wealth of community services and supports.
How you can get involved
Interested in serving on the MCAAE?
Members are appointed by the Mayor, who seeks candidates who are active in Seattle and King County community affairs and have skills and experience in health care, research, and public relations, and who are connected to the African American community. For more information or to apply, visit the Seattle Boards and Commissions web page.
The MCAAE is also interested in hearing your opinions about the needs of African American elders in our community. For more information, visit the MCAAE website at seattle.gov/MCAAE or e-mail Eldad.Mekuria@seattle.gov.