This Sunday at the GEM Theater, there’s a unique opportunity to listen to jazz and learn about Black history, all for free. 

The Black Archives of Mid-America, the Greater Kansas City Black Suffragists Committee, and the Women’s Equality Coalition are hosting a Black Suffragists and Jazz event on Aug. 27, from 3 – 5 p.m. at the GEM Theater.

History and jazz both take the stage. The CEO of the Black Archives of Mid-America, Dr. Carmaletta Williams, will give a presentation on the history of Black suffragists in Kansas City. Women’s researcher Lisa White Hardwick will also give a presentation highlighting specific  people in the KC suffragists’ movement.  

“Expect to have fun, hear some exciting & wonderful jazz from Black musicians in the area and expect to learn something,” says Dr. Williams. 

The afternoon will feature performances by some of Kansas City’s finest female jazz musicians.  Millie Edwards and Lisa Henry will each sing while accompanied by Pam Watson. The Kansas City Girls Choir, led by Mia Edwards, will also deliver a performance. 

The event was originally scheduled to be held in the Blue Room, but overwhelming demand forced a move to the larger GEM Theater. There is no charge to attend, although donations are welcomed to help offset production costs.

You can RSVP at inthekitchenak@gmail.com. The RSVP allows you to get updates for future events, allows for attendance tracking, and is encouraged but is not required for entry. 

Making History: KC’s Suffragists and Jazz Artists

GEM Theater | 1615 E. 18th Street, Kansas City, MO

Sunday, August 27, 3 to 5 p.m. FREE

To get more information or donate, visit: blackarchives.org