The Community Voice

Step ‘N Vibe: Step Aerobics Class
2026-02-16 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-02-23 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | ArtsTech, 1522 Holmes Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Step. Sweat. Vibe! This Step Aerobics class brings the beats, the bounce, & the burn. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.

Fathers Matter 2 Session
2026-02-19 18:00 - 19:30 | 1206 N 38th St, 1206 North 38th Street, Kansas City, KS, 66102, United States
Join us in person for Fathers Matter 2 Session, a real talk about why Fathers matter

Fathers Matter 2 Session
Join us in person for the Fathers Matter 2 Session! This event is all about celebrating and supporting dads everywhere. Come hang out, share experiences, and connect with other fathers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a new dad or have years under your belt, this session is for you. Don’t miss out on some great conversations and real talk about what it means to be a father today!

Reel Black Film Fest 2026
2026-02-20 16:00 - 17:00 | Gem Theater, 1615 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
The 2nd annual film fest showcases a compelling curation of local short and feature-length films from Black filmmakers across the region.

General admission is free, registration is required. The weekend kicks off Friday night with a VIP opening reception (paid ticket required) and wraps up with an after-party hosted by Vine Street Brewing Co. On Saturday, the celebration continues with a full day of film screenings and community conversations, ending with a closing reception at the American Jazz Museum. Full details below!

GENERAL FESTIVAL ADMISSION
The Gem Theater | FREE
Friday, Feb. 20 | 5 – 8 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 21 | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
General Admission includes:

Access to dynamic films, thoughtful conversations, and community connection.

Black-Owned Marketplace

Filmmaker’s Lounge

Refreshments Available for Purchase

VIP OPENING RECEPTION
The Gem Theater | $150
Friday, Feb. 20 | 4 – 5 p.m.
Purchase includes:

VIP opening reception (refreshments included)

One-year Kansas City PBS filmmaker membership (one-year registration)

Reel Black Film Fest T-shirt

Reel Black Film Fest Poster

Early-access Black-Owned Marketplace

Meet and greet with the Filmmakers

REEL BLACK ON TAP
Vine St. Brewing Co. | FREE
Friday, Feb. 20 | 8 – 10 p.m.
Join us to celebrate the first evening of the film fest with an after party at Vine Street Brewing.

CLOSING RECEPTION
American Jazz Museum | FREE
Saturday, Feb. 21 | 7 – 10 p.m.
We’ll close out the festival with award presentations, filmmaker mingling, light bites and drinks.

SPECIAL MERCH OFFER!
For a limited time, pre‑order* a poster + shirt bundle for a $75 donation, or a shirt for a $60 donation and save on transaction fees. Shirts will be sold at the event in limited quantities and will include additional transaction fees. Posters are only available with a pre‑order or a VIP ticket.
All t‑shirts and posters will be available for pick‑up at the festival near the Black‑Owned Marketplace. See a staff member for details.
*Pre‑order by Friday, Jan. 30 at noon

The Reel Black Film Fest is presented in partnership with Fem the Future.

FAQs

Street parking and nearby parking lots are available for The Gem Theater, Vine Street Brewing Co. and The American Jazz Museum.

Additional schedule details will be released Friday, Jan. 30.

For additional information regarding ADA accessibility, please email communications@kansascitypbs.org.

Shocker Community Night: “Move, Play, Connect”
2026-02-20 17:00 - 22:00 | MO
Elementary, middle, and high school students — bring your families, mentors, and those who support you for a FREE night of fun, food, movement, and connection at WSU!

Enjoy open access to: Gym games & open play E-Sports Hub Literacy/reading room Game stations & activities Free dinner (pizza + drinks) Door prizes while supplies last

We’re welcoming students & families, church youth groups, TRIO & GEAR UP programs, Shocker Neighborhood families, and community friends to come together with WSU for a night centered on wellness, recreation, and community connection.

Community & university partners can also table, share resources, or host an activity. Please register to table or host an activity by January 31st.

Main Programming | 5:00–7:45 PM Dinner Gym activities E-Sports Hub Literacy room Resource tables Organized games

Continued Activities | 8:00–10:00 PM Movie Night Open Swim E-Sports (extended) Open Gym

Register to attend, volunteer, or table (same link):https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/…/SV…

Parking is FREE after 5 PM. Closest lots: 5, 10, 19W, 15Map: https://map.concept3d.com/?id=1128#!ce/24624?ct/51577?s/

Let’s Move, Play & Connect together at WSU!

Slavery of Faith: A Black History Month Talk with Leslie Wagner-Wilson
2026-02-21 11:00 - 12:30 | Shawnee Church of the Nazarene, 5539 Quivira Road, Shawnee, KS, 66216, United States
Join Leslie Wagner-Wilson, survivor of the Jonestown tragedy, for a real talk on faith, history, and resilience—don’t miss it!

The Johnson County NAACP invites you to a Black History Month program featuring Leslie Wagner-Wilson, author of Slavery of Faith.
Leslie Wagner-Wilson is one of the few survivors of the Jonestown tragedy of November 18, 1978. Through her powerful story, she inspires others to find hope and healing even in the darkest of circumstances.
Slavery of Faith is a memoir that explores themes of faith, community, resilience, and survival. Wagner-Wilson shares her lived experience within the Peoples Temple movement and her escape from Jonestown, focusing on the human impact of manipulation and the journey toward healing and personal freedom.

Book Information:Attendees will be entered into a drawing to win one of ten autographed copies of Slavery of Faith.A limited number of books may be available for purchase. More information to come.

Annual History Luncheon: Mission Impossible
2026-02-21 11:30 - 13:30 | Marriott Downtown Kansas City, 200 W 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, 64105
, a celebration honoring the rich legacy, achievements, and cultural contributions of African Americans. This inspiring event features keynote speakers, special guests, and reflections that pay tribute to the past while looking toward a future of unity, justice, and progress. Don’t miss this opportunity to gather, uplift, and commemorate Black excellence in our community.

NAACP Youth Council Family Game Night
2026-02-21 17:00 - 20:00 | BUILD REBUILD, 1751 N Ash, Wichita, Kansas, 67214
JOIN US FOR A FUN GAME NIGHT WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS. ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: CARD & BOARD GAMES. PUZZLES, PRIZES & SNACKS

$5 PER PERSON OR BUY ONE GET ONE (BRING A FRIEND FOR FREE)

Freedom Fund Banquet
2026-02-21 17:30 - 23:59 | The Temple, 336 South Santa Fe Avenue, Salina, KS, 67401, United States
Join us in person for the Freedom Fund Banquet—a night full of hope, impact, and celebration!

Join Us at the Freedom Fund Banquet!
Get ready for an awesome evening celebrating freedom and community. This in-person event is your chance to connect, enjoy great company, and support a fantastic cause. Whether you’re coming with friends or flying solo, the Freedom Fund Banquet promises good vibes and memorable moments. Don’t miss out!

Brothers Liberating Our Communities Winter Gala
2026-02-21 18:00 - 21:00 | Keystone CoLAB, 800 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Celebrate 2025 with your favorite educators, community members, and friends. Support educators who take pride in teaching and learning!

Every year Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC) works to support Black men in education. Through scholarships, small group learning, and community support, BLOC has retained 100% of its fellows in education. 87% of those fellows have increased their salary, responsibility, or role in their institution following the completion of the fellowship. Each of the fellows impacts on a minimum 1,000 students per year. The impact BLOC makes on the ecosystem is far reaching. We need your support!

BLACK HISTORY FRIENDS AND FAMILY DAY
2026-02-22 10:30 - 12:00 | St. Andrews Missionary Baptist Church, 3901 E. 25th Street North, Wichita, KS, 67220, United States
Join us for Friends & Family Day as we celebrate Black History Month!

Come fellowship with us and show up in your best African attire as we honor culture, history, and community.We can’t wait to celebrate with you—bring your people and your pride!

KC Winter Jazzfest
2026-02-22 12:00 - 2026-02-23 01:00 | 1219 Union Ave, 1219 Union Avenue, Kansas City, MO, 64101, United States
Musician-Led all day festival in the West Bottoms

Get Ready for the 1st Annual KC Winter Jazzfest!
Join us in person for the coolest jazz experience of the season. The KC Winter Jazzfest is a musician-run experience that brings together amazing local talent, youth groups, univeristy groups and seasoned pros. Whether you’re a jazz newbie or a hardcore fan, this fest is all about good music, great company, and togetherness of the KC jazz scene. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled celebration of jazz in the heart of the West Bottoms!

noon-6pm all ages 6pm-1am 21+

Voices of Women Unleashed
2026-02-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Beverly’s, 401 North 6th Street, Kansas City, KS, 66101, United States
This book amplifies voices of women nationwide in areas of justice, equality, and liberty.

Support local author and city Commissioner, Dr. Evelyn Hill! This book amplifies voices of women nationwide in areas of justice, equality, and liberty. It challenges the status quo, breaking down barriers that continue to oppress and deny women the opportunities to move forward in life.
This provocative group of voices challenges our society to dismantle the oppressed policies of the past and to begin to build bridges of solutions that will encourage individuals to step up and speak out. This is the time for change and new ideas that will alter the trajectory of the future of women around the world.
The event is $15 to attend without the book and $40 to include the book

A Family Reunion: Black History Month Celebration
2026-02-22 15:00 - 17:00 | Carl Brewer Community Center, 1329 E 13th, WICHITA, Kansas, 67214

A Family Reunion"
2026-02-22 15:00 - 17:00 | Carl Brewer Community Center, 1329 E 13th, WICHITA, Kansas, 67214
Dr. Tasha Kelly and Tasha Hayes are the featured speakers for this special program.

Fred Douglass #99 of the Prince Hall Affiliated Lodges of the 5th District of Kansas will be hosting a Black History Program

ARISE Ensemble Presents 4th Annual Youth Extravaganza
2026-02-22 15:00 - 17:00 | Holy Savior Catholic Academy, 3000 E 13th, Wichita, KS 67214
This Black History Month, the ARISE Ensemble is proud to present our 4th Annual Youth Extravaganza project with the Holy Savior Youth Choir.

Together, we celebrate history, heritage, and the next generation through the spirit of unity and the power of music. COST: ADULT $15

CHILD $5

FAMILY $35

The State of Black Wealth in KC
2026-02-23 18:00 - 21:00 | Keystone CoLAB, 800 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Join us as we dive deep into the holistic wealth of Kansas City’s Black community, exploring paths to prosperity and economic empowerment.

The State of Black Wealth KC – Black Wealth Week KC Opening Night
Presented by Echoes of the City KC: Roots and Rise
📍 Keystone Innovation District, Kansas City
📅 Monday, February 23, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

About This Event
The State of Black Wealth KC officially opens Black Wealth Week KC with an engaging, powerful evening of community vision-casting, education, and collaboration.
This is not just a panel.
This is a community table.
Together, residents, leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, and institutions will explore what it truly means to build holistic wealth in Kansas City — across five essential pillars:
• Mental Wealth — healing, mindset, and emotional well-being
• Physical Wealth — health, safety, and access to care
• Time Wealth — systems, opportunity, and access to resources
• Social Wealth — relationships, networks, and collaboration
• Financial Wealth — ownership, investment, and economic stability

What to Expect
Community Gathering (6:00–7:00 PM)
• Networking and connection
• Interactive Wealth Wall where guests share ideas, commitments, and visions for Kansas City’s future
• Photo backdrop and resource tables
• Light refreshments
Formal Program (7:00–8:30 PM)
• Welcome & Vision Framing
• Echoes of the City + Black Wealth Week Opening Video
• Community Panel Discussion featuring leaders across health, business, finance, development, justice, and civic systems
• Audience engagement and live reflections from the Wealth Wall
• Black Wealth Week Pledge — a collective commitment to building stronger systems and opportunities for our city
Connection Hour (8:30–9:00 PM)
• Open networking with panelists, organizations, and community members
• Learn about upcoming Black Wealth Week events and the Roots & Rise Gala

Who Should Attend
• Community leaders and advocates
• Entrepreneurs and business owners
• Educators, health professionals, and nonprofit leaders
• Financial and civic partners
• Students and emerging leaders
• Anyone invested in the future of Black wealth and opportunity in Kansas City

Why This Matters
Black wealth is not just financial.
It is mental, physical, social, and collective.
This evening is designed to move us from conversation to collaboration — and from vision to action — as we work together to build stronger systems, deeper relationships, and lasting opportunities across Kansas City.

Stay Connected
Proudly presented as part of Black Wealth Week KC — a week dedicated to community, empowerment, and a holistic approach to building wealth beyond money. We invite you to experience all the events happening throughout the week, and to join us for The Roots & Rise Honoree & Fundraiser Gala – our signature evening that concludes this celebration in honor of legacy, leadership, and impact.

About Echoes of the City KC
Echoes of the City KC is a Kansas City-based nonprofit dedicated to storytelling and community initiative dedicated to honoring local builders, elevating community voices, and creating spaces where culture, leadership, and collective wealth intersect.

LET'S TALK COMM
2026-02-24 11:00 - 13:00 | WSU Rhatigan Student Center, 1845 N Fairmount, Wichita, KS, 67260, United States
Ricki Ellison will lead a hands-on workshop on how words, tone and audience segmentation influence the way messages are received by community members.

RM 233

Fundraiser: Historic Washington Chapel Restoration
2026-02-25 17:30 - 19:30 | Parkville Presbyterian Church, 819 Main Street, Parkville, MO, 64152, United States
Spaghetti Dinner, Silent Auction and Discussion Panel. Help save an Historic African American Landmark in Parkville, Missouri.

Do Something Mo presents Spaghetti Dinner and a Chat to raise funds for the restoration of the Historic Washington Chapel CME, the last remaining African American Church in Parkville, Missouri. The church was built in 1907 by formerly enslaved people and their descendants. It served as a touchstone for the African American Community during segregation and the Civil Rights Movement. Its rich history is a story about strength, resilience and hope.
The church is being restored as an active church serving the local community as well as an event space and community center. In conjunction with the Banneker Freedman’s School, it will create an educational center on the history of African Americans in our community.
Doors Open at 5:30pm. The evening will begin with a silent auction featuring items curated from Main Street Parkville shops; a curated wine basket; a hand-sewn, one-of-a-kind quilt from Blankets of Hope; Watercolor from Local Artist, Alex Hamil, a pair of bookends created from original pews with a selection of related books and certificate of authenticity; memorative photos and posters will be available for a small donation (while supplies last!)
Guests are invited to mingle and look at displays about the history of the church, its restoration and its future.
Dinner will be served buffet style starting at 6pm. It includes spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert and non alcoholic beverages.
We will have a coffee and chat with the indomitable Douglass sisters, long-time members of the church and pillars of the Parkville African American Community who have spearheaded the restoration of the church and development of the Banneker Freedman’s School learning center. Barb Leutke will talk about her upcoming book on African American history in Platte County
Topics will include the history of the church, growing up in the community from segregations, to civil rights and beyond. The future of the church and the historical complex.

Donate Early by scanning one of the above QR codes for PayPal or Cash app or manually type in the handle. $15/Attendee. Put “Spaghetti” in the memo line. Show your payment at the door. Or bring cash or scan Cash App or PayPal when you arrive. Cash, PayPal or Check accepted for the Silent Auction.

Black Wealth Networking Mixer
2026-02-25 18:00 - 21:00 | The Blakk Co., 1108 E 30th Street,, Ste BB, Kansas City, MO, 64109, United States
Join us to connect, collaborate, expand your network, spark new opportunities, & celebrate Black business, and community power.

Join Us for the Black Wealth Networking Mixer!
Looking to connect with like-minded individuals and boost your network? The Black Wealth Networking Mixer, Day 2 of Black Wealth Week KC presented by Echoes of the City: Roots & Rise is the perfect place to meet inspiring professionals, share ideas, and explore new opportunities! The evening will feature an informative panel discussion, guided connections with a conversation concierge and meaningful networking in a relaxed, welcoming space. Come connect, share ideas, and build relationships that move you forward. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow your circle and celebrate success together. See you there!

Stay Connected
Proudly presented as part of Black Wealth Week KC — a week dedicated to community, empowerment, and a holistic approach to building wealth beyond money. We invite you to experience all the events happening throughout the week, and to join us for The Roots & Rise Honoree & Fundraiser Gala – our signature evening that concludes this celebration in honor of legacy, leadership, and impact.

About Echoes of the City
Echoes of the City KC is a Kansas City-based nonprofit dedicated to storytelling and community initiative dedicated to honoring local builders, elevating community voices, and creating spaces where culture, leadership, and collective wealth intersect.

Kansas Music Educators Association In-Service Workshop
2026-02-26 07:30 - 2026-02-28 17:00 | Century II, 225 W Douglas, Wichita, Kansas
Each year, KMEA hosts an In-Service Workshop in Wichita. At this important annual event, speakers, performers, and vendors gather together to represent the best of music education throughout the state. Tickets are now available to select student musical performances during KMEA.
Ticket link: https://selectaseat.com/kmea26

HACK the DREAM KC 2026
2026-02-26 09:00 - 12:00 | The Kansas City Public Library: Central Library, 14 West 10th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
The 2026 Hack the Dream theme challenges participants to confront algorithmic bias and redesign AI systems with fairness & transparency

The 2026 Hack the Dream theme challenges participants to confront algorithmic bias and redesign AI systems with fairness, transparency, and representation at their core. They’ll explore how technology shapes culture, opportunity, and access; and what it takes to build tools that reflect diverse values, and lived experiences. HACK the DREAM

Setting The Stage
2026-02-26 19:00 - 20:00 | Gem Theater, 1615 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
A stunning journey through African American dance history starring local + national artists. Free public performance — register to attend.

Mental Health First Aid
2026-02-27 09:00 - 16:00 | K-State Research and Extension Office-Wildcat Room, 1200 N 79th Street, Kansas City, KS, 66112, United States
Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to help a loved one who may be struggling with their mental health.

Black Wealth Fest
2026-02-27 12:00 - 20:00 | Palestine Senior Citizens, 3325 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, MO, 64128, United States
Join us to celebrate and elevate Black wealth with a day full of empowerment, education, and community connection.

Welcome to Black Wealth Fest!
Get ready for the third day of Black Wealth Week KC, presented by Echoes of the City: Roots & Rise, an amazing day focused on building, celebrating, and sharing Black wealth like never before. This event is packed with inspiring talks, networking opportunities, and fun vibes — all designed to empower our community. This event is a dynamic showcase celebrating the creativity, innovation, and impact of Black-owned businesses across a wide range of industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs, explore products and services, build meaningful relationships, and support economic empowerment within the community. The experience is designed to foster collaboration, visibility, and growth while highlighting the excellence and diversity of Black entrepreneurship. Don’t miss out!
Vendors Wanted
We are currently seeking Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and service providers interested in showcasing their offerings to an engaged and supportive audience. Vendors will gain exposure, networking opportunities, and the chance to connect directly with potential customers and partners. Whether you’re looking to learn, connect, or just soak up positive energy, Black Wealth Fest is the place to be.
For more information on becoming a vendor.

Stay Connected
Proudly presented as part of Black Wealth Week KC — a week dedicated to community, empowerment, and a holistic approach to building wealth beyond money. We invite you to experience all the events happening throughout the week, and to join us for The Roots & Rise Honoree & Fundraiser Gala – our signature evening that concludes this celebration in honor of legacy, leadership, and impact.

About Echoes of the City
Echoes of the City KC is a Kansas City-based nonprofit dedicated to storytelling and community initiative dedicated to honoring local builders, elevating community voices, and creating spaces where culture, leadership, and collective wealth intersect.

Ponder. This. – Building Wichita Together: A Community Conversation
2026-02-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Wichita Art Museum, 1400 W. Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS, 67203, United States
this community-centered gathering brings together dynamic leaders, creatives, and changemakers for an evening of dialogue, reflection, and collective visioning inspired by the exhibition “Safer Waters: Picturing Black Recreation at Midcentury”. The program will also feature guest poetry performances by Knowledge & Essex, offering moments of rhythm and reflection throughout the evening.

◆ Hosted and moderated by Tasha Hayes and Naquela Pack, the event invites Wichita residents to engage in honest conversation about our shared goals, challenges, and opportunities to build a stronger, more connected city.

Panelists:

Shane Carter ◆ Shane Carter is Executive Director of The Kansas African American Museum.

Anthony Joiner ◆ An art dealer and nonprofit founder

Molly McFerson ◆ Director and Chief Executive Officer, Wichita Art Museum.

Nnanna Okpara ◆ Founder and Director of Festive ICT

Brandon Polite ◆ Co-founder of Protect Your Mind, and Executive Director of the Build and Rebuild Family and Education Center.

Aileen Rueda-DaCosta ◆ Kansas-based storyteller, advocate, and portrait photographer.

◆ About the exhibition:https://wam.org/…/safer-waters-picturing-black…/

Intimate Worship 2025
2026-02-27 19:30 - 21:00 | Burford Theatre, 118 South Summit Street, Arkansas City, KS, 67005, United States
Join us for Intimate Worship 2025: An unforgettable night of praise with special guest Pastor Donnie McClurkin!

Live Music Fridays
2026-02-27 20:00 - 23:00 | The Blakk Co., 1108 E 30th Street,, Ste BB, Kansas City, MO, 64109, United States
Enjoy an evening of live music featuring local artists on Fridays at Kansas City’s Premier Social Club located in Historic Wonder Building

Black Business Tour
2026-02-28 00:00 - 23:59 | MO
Join us for the Black Business Tour on February 28, 2026, a guided bus tour celebrating Black-owned businesses, culture, and community. Participants will visit a lineup of local Black-owned businesses, meet the owners behind the brands, and learn the stories shaping our city’s Black business ecosystem.

This year’s theme, Standing on Business 365, highlights the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses year-round, not just during special moments. Enjoy shopping, connection, light refreshments, and surprises along the way, all at no cost thanks to our sponsors.

Free with registration Transportation provided Kick-off at Cargill Protein Headquarters Staggered start times available

Spaces are limited. Reserve your seat today and be part of a movement that keeps dollars circulating in our community.

Women. Power. Purpose. Brunch.
2026-02-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Wichita Marriott, 9100 E Corporate Hills Dr, 9100 E Corporate Hills Dr, Wichita, KS, 67207, United States
Featuring Rev. Yolanda White-Oliver

One morning. One room. A whole lot of impact.

Every ticket helps build safe, affordable housing for families in our community.

Big energy. Bigger mission.

wichitahabitat.org/womenbuild

Because women don’t just talk about change—we build it.
