Black Room
Statement by artist, Eddie Walker. Mural painted in 1972.

The creation of the murals for the ECC Black Room was inspired by the spirit, minds, and office labor of black women -- the women who helped found the first black student Union at the University of Washington. Their efforts were historically unsung, and as minister of art for the BSU, I felt it my duty to leave a visual memorial titled, "Bearers of Culture."
Many males claimed early BSU leadership positions, but the idea administrators needed workers to do the organizing, teaching, phoning, typing, mailing, errands, and cooking. The women of the BSU gave all of their labor plus love, spirit, and courage to those radical days of the Sixties and early Seventies. Their work helped propel the formation of the EOP, OMA, and ECC Complex. All students owe them a debt of gratitude. They helped create history with a proud legacy, past, present and future.

It was my honor to donate the talent, paints, and time to leave an image worthy of their sacrifices.

Black women have helped nurture the dream of freedom in their children, their men, their people, and humanity. May they never aspire to less.

Over twenty years later this mural continues to testify to the unsung heroines of a people, still in search, and still fighting for freedom, dignity, and respect.

As an artist, 20 years older, I am proudest of this mural for what it continues to inspire in all who view it. For me and future generations, I hope "Bearers of Culture" will inspire others to continue the dreams, continue the sacrifice, and continue the struggle. Black women have!

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