The Washington Foundation Reflects On America’s 250

Dr. James W. Washington, Jr. produced enduring artworks reflecting his values of democracy, civil rights and equality.

James W. Washington, Jr. Democracy Challenged. 1949. James & Janie Washington Foundation Collection. Photo by Korum Bischoff.

The 1949 oil painting, Democracy Challenged, on unfinished Masonite with newspaper collage, creatively explores his views on the subject, particularly given the era and his own experiences with racial injustice.

Working in Mississippi for the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Dr. Washington organized what he called “the first negro art exhibition sponsored by the WPA in the state of Mississippi” (stevenspowers.com) when he was excluded from exhibiting with white artists.

Dr. Washington’s 1994 public sculpture, The Fountain of Triumph, was intended to symbolize the African American experience – “pushing against dangerous, prevailing forces to survive and thrive”. (Cascade PBS, Black Arts Legacies)

Celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States is a time to reflect on the values and the works of Dr. Washington.  At a time when history is being erased, we remember and draw inspiration from Dr. Washington and his wife, Janie Rogella Washington.  

“Self-preservation is the first law of our history.”

Rev. Dr. LaVerne Corine Williams Foster Hall Harvey Brown Fontaine Turner Hill Holt McCanne Cash Johnson, Executive Director, Washington Foundation

The Washington Foundation’s ongoing support for historic preservation draws from the Washingtons’ past experiences and continued influence. African American history is an integral and undeniable part of US history, and the Washingtons ensured this national inclusivity through their artwork, education, spiritual beliefs, and the foundation they created.  

We will continue to research and document our shared history, safeguard the Washingtons’ landmarked residence and studio, and share the stories of their legacy and Seattle’s Central District.