Douglass School

There is No Kansas City Without Black Kansas City

African American educators, activists, entrepreneurs, entertainers, athletes, and many others built a vibrant community that shaped the city and – and by extension, the nation. For the past 11 years, the Local Investment Commission (LINC), Kansas City Public Library, and Black Archives of Mid-America have annually celebrated this underappreciated history in poster sets, booklets, and calendars highlighting the history of Black excellence in the city and region.

Introductions

YMCA opening celebration

Our Publication Today

In 2021, in association with Missouri’s Bicentennial, a commemorative publication was made available that spotlights the contributions of more than 70 Black Kansas Citians. It includes previously published biographies, as well as new honorees and remarks by Black leaders in our community today. The document has been updated in each subsequent year with new biographies.

View the Bicentennial Booklet (PDF)

View the 2026 Booklet (PDF)