In celebration of Juneteenth, The Northwest Arkansas Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Council (NWA MLK Council) recently initiated a groundbreaking community-wide survey designed to amplify the voices of the Black community across Northwest Arkansas (NWA). On June 17, the NWA MLK Council launched their “State of Black NWA” census project to gain a deeper understanding of the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas, with a focus on members of the Black community. 

This comprehensive census, supported by a grant from the Community Engagement Fund at the Arkansas Community Foundation and funding from The Excellerate Foundation, provides an unparalleled opportunity to encapsulate the perspectives of their “beloved community” by aiming to elevate their diverse needs and aspirations within the rapidly growing NWA region. 

“Our goal as a council is more than mere existence; we aim to drive impact and advocate for our community,” said council president Lindsey Leverett Higgins, “Therefore, it is only fitting that we continue to ground ourselves in the current opportunities, conditions, and challenges of the very community we aim to serve.” 

The breadth of questions and topics covered in this survey illustrates our commitment to gaining a holistic understanding of the state of the Black and African American community in NWA. The results will be instrumental in guiding strategies and investments to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of our region’s Black and African American community,” added Chris Seawood, treasurer of the NWA MLK Council. 

Participants can access the survey and gain insights into the ‘State of Black NWA’ project at www.nwamlk.org. The Northwest Arkansas council works to advance and promote the dream, life, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing love and action. It also promotes awareness, education, and unity throughout the Northwest Arkansas community.