In 1886, approximately 350 Chinese residents were forcibly expelled from Seattle and put on a ship to San Francisco before being deported to China. To acknowledge this injustice and ensure the community never forgets the harm caused by racial discrimination, local organizations launched the Chinese Expulsion Memorial Project. Every year of the Walk, More than 100 participants walked peacefully from Hing Hay Park to the waterfront and back, retracing the path connected to one of Seattle’s most painful but important historical moments. The first major commemoration took place on the 100th anniversary in 1986, and 2025's Walk marks the fifth such commemoration.

The Walk to Harbor itself has now been held for 39 years, becoming a symbolic tradition in Seattle. By walking the same route once marked by sorrow, participants honor the past while affirming the city’s commitment to standing against prejudice and hatred.

With plans to continue expanding this annual tradition, United Hub aims to make the Walk to Harbor a lasting, community-wide reminder of resilience, unity, and responsibility.