Community leaders, students and residents gathered at Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kansas, on Feb. 28 for the 34th Annual KCK Black History & Scholarship Celebration, an event that blended reflection on history with investments in the next generation.
Hosted by the Unified Government’s Black History Committee, the annual brunch has become a longstanding tradition in Wyandotte County. The committee, formed in 1982, was created by local leaders who worked with city administrators and the mayor to establish a group dedicated to celebrating Black history, highlighting community achievements and raising scholarship funds for local students.
Over the past four decades, the volunteer committee has organized the annual event to recognize community contributions, showcase minority-owned businesses and support educational opportunities for local students.
This year’s program carried the theme “Visions of Liberation: Honoring the Past, Reimagining the Future.” The afternoon included live music, recognition of community leaders and a panel discussion exploring the history and future of the Quindaro Ruins, one of the region’s most significant historical sites.
The panel discussion, facilitated by Kay Sharp, featured Judge Karen Arnold-Burger, Nakia Hope-Paul, Amanda Martin and Craig Moore II, who reflected on Quindaro’s historic role in the fight for freedom and its potential future as a preserved historic landmark and educational site.
The event also recognized several community leaders and businesses. Bonita Gooch, editor-in-chief and publisher of The Community Voice, was honored with the Community Leader Award for her work in journalism and community engagement. Her award was presented by Unified Government Commissioner Jermaine Howard.
Community business recognitions were presented to Donnell’s Kitchen and Joe Straws (DJ Joe).
Scholarship support generated through the event benefits local educational institutions, including Donnelly College, Kansas City Kansas Community College and Kansas City Kansas Public Schools.
Entertainment during the brunch was provided by the Comprehensive Arts Institute Jazz Band from Grandview, Missouri, featuring young performers—many of them high school students—who brought energy and talent to the program.
The program was emceed by Barton Richardson of the Kansas City Kansas Fire Department, and catering for the event was provided by Seasongs Classic Catering.
Organizers also took time during the program to honor the memory of Deputy Elijah Ming and Officer Hunter Simoncic, who were killed in the line of duty last year.
Members of the Black History Committee who helped organize this year’s event include Shaya Lockett, Deasiray Bush, Brandy Wells, Gordon Criswell, Reginald Lindsey, Tyszu Woolridge, Krystal McFeders, Sherry Love, David Kelly, Vita Drew, Cory Grayson, Asia Manning and volunteer Mary Ayalla.
Through scholarships, recognition and community dialogue, the committee continues its mission to celebrate African American achievements while helping shape the future of the Wyandotte County community.
