Race, Ethnicity, & Culture

-Lesley Lopez-Covarrubias

Culturally Diverse Businesses

Capitol Hill is home to many small, culturally owned businesses, including Black, Asian, and Hispanic-owned restaurants and shops, often hidden from mainstream attention but offering authentic, diverse experiences. While popular websites highlight trendy, stylish restaurants, Capitol Hill also features locally-owned, community-centered spots that prioritize quality and culture over flashy aesthetics.

Neighborhood Assessment Score I Would Give: 4

Capitol Hill today is a vibrant neighborhood that celebrates its rich cultural diversity through its wide array of food and businesses, particularly those owned by Black, Asian, and Hispanic communities. The area is home to unique, culturally rich restaurants and small shops, especially near the light rail, that reflect the neighborhood’s transformation into a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds. However, this inclusive atmosphere is a far cry from what Capitol Hill was like 100 years ago, when Black and Asian residents were actively discouraged or even prohibited from living in the area. The shift from exclusion to inclusion marks a significant and positive change, showcasing the neighborhood's evolution into a more open, diverse, and supportive community.

The History and Transformation of Capitol Hill: A Journey of Inclusion and Diversity

Capitol Hill, once a predominantly white neighborhood, was shaped by racially restrictive covenants that kept Black and Asian people from living in certain areas. These discriminatory practices persisted until the Civil Rights Movement, and it wasn’t until after Martin Luther King Jr.'s death that meaningful changes began, allowing Black residents to move into Capitol Hill.

Today, Capitol Hill is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood, home to successful locally owned businesses, such as The Footprint Wine Tap (Black-owned), Plum Bistro (Black-owned), and Organic Spa (Asian-owned). This transformation from exclusion to inclusion highlights Capitol Hill’s progress toward becoming a welcoming and inclusive community for all. For more about the neighborhood’s journey and businesses, check out: https://depts.washington.edu/civilr/covenants_capitol-hill.htm

Exploring the Cultural Diversity of Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill, while still home to predominantly white neighborhoods, showcases significant ethnic diversity across different blocks. For example, a large Black population resides in the southern part of Capitol Hill, though Black residents are also present in other areas, albeit in smaller numbers. On the upper west side, less than 12% of the Black population lives there, highlighting the area's demographic distinction.

Looking closer at the Asian and Hispanic populations, it’s clear they are concentrated in different parts of the neighborhood. Asians are primarily located in the northern section of Capitol Hill, while Hispanics are mainly found in areas closer to the southern blocks, near where the largest Black population resides.

As Capitol Hill continues to evolve, its cultural richness is reflected in its diverse businesses and communities, contributing to the area’s vibrant atmosphere. Exploring these neighborhoods offers a glimpse into the dynamic mix of cultures that make Capitol Hill unique.