Community Engagement and Events Coordinator Jacqueline Hamilton is a self proclaimed “south end baby” and a proud resident of Seattle — a city her family has called home for two generations.
As Jacqueline celebrates one year at Byrd Bar Place, we sat down with her to discuss her favorite parts of her job and her vision for both the organization and an equitable future.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your upbringing?
I am a proud south end baby born and raised in Seattle, I am the second generation born here. My grandparents are from Texas and we are still very much Texans, but Seattle has been home to my family for the last 50 years.
I’ve been a communications geek since I was a teenager. I wrote for my school newspaper and was awarded a playwright award in high school. I also wanted to be a journalist, however, by the time I got to college, many newspapers were shutting down and I decided traditional journalism might not be the path.
So I pivoted and focused on events and brand strategy, which brought me to Byrd Bar Place. It’s been a great ride — I’m having fun.
What is an average day in the life of a community engagement and events coordinator?
In my role, I am responsible for all of Byrd Barr Place’s community outreach. On an average day, I am usually attending the events of other organizations, tabling at conferences or building relationships. I basically serve as a human billboard for Byrd Barr Place. I also develop the storytelling around events — creating the narrative and themes that explain what we are doing.
The second half of my role is leading event production. My prior experience leaned into more linear, straight forward events, but here at Byrd Barr Place, events tend to be complex and allow me to explore a lot more creative ideas.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The people. Rosie Grant, Byrd Barr Place Development & Communications Coordinator, shared the opportunity with me. Hearing her have a good experience was one of the things that inspired me to accept the job offer.
The staff is great, there’s a good mix of newbies and OGs. The building is beautiful and I get the opportunity to give back to my community as a Seattleite.
What’ s your vision for an equitable Black future?
My vision for an equitable future is one where Black people are taking control of our communities and getting back to a place where we are funding ourselves, supporting each other, and creating our own.
As we’ve seen recently, the rug can be snatched from underneath us at any moment. So I think we have to build ourselves up and fortify our communities in a way that allows us to take care of each other, even when things are down.
Do you have a favorite mantra or song that inspires you regularly?
“Nice” by The Carters.
I love the hook when it goes, “I can do anything!” I like to listen to that in the morning. It just gets me excited and reminds me “Girl, you can do it. Just do it.”
