Stacey Knoell is the executive director of the Kansas African American Affairs Commission (KAAAC). In addition to her work with the KAAAC, she is president of the board of directors of the Kansas Black Leadership Council. She has a bachelor’s degree in art history from the University of Iowa and a degree in deaf communications and interpreter training from St. Louis Community College. Previously, Stacey worked in public schools as a sign language interpreter in Blue Springs and as a math teacher in Kansas City, KS. Stacey and her husband, Troy, reside in Olathe with their two daughters and their dog, Twix.
↓ Click below to follow all of our election coverage ↓
Why did you decide to run for office?
I ran in answer to the call that it was my turn to step into the flow of history and continue bending the arc of history toward justice. I am running now to bring political balance to the Kansas Legislature and to represent what previous elections show my district wants.
What do you believe are the most pressing issues affecting your district that you would hope to be able to impact?
Overwhelmingly, I hear that people love living in Olathe. Many people move to Olathe because of the public schools and they want to support the schools and the teachers. One thing I heard more than I anticipated is concerns for an aging population. From Social Security to access to healthcare and housing, many are making decisions as to how they can remain in Olathe. A part of that is the rising property taxes, which are taking their toll on everyone.
Would you support expansion of Medicaid and legalization of medical marijuana?
I would support both Medicaid expansion and legalized medical marijuana. I believe it is political theater that the legislature has not expanded Medicaid when it is so clear that doing so would actually help people who need it. With legalized medical marijuana, the devil is in the details of who gets to grow, process, or sell the product. I would like to see assurances of equity to ensure the communities most impacted by the “War on Drugs” are not left behind when that drug becomes legal.
How do you plan to listen to and communicate with your constituents?
I know many elected officials hold monthly sessions to meet with constituents. It may be just a Saturday meet up in a donut shop or library conference room, but I think it will be important to have a regular cadence of being in the community.