Showing Up, Listening, and Taking Action
This April was all about being present in our community by listening to residents, supporting local organizations, and continuing conversations about the issues that matter most to Kansas Citians.
Community Clean-Ups & Direct Service
We kicked off the month on April 4th by getting our hands dirty and giving back. From the Indian Mound clean-up at Budd Park to supporting Heartland River Rescue along the Blue River, it was a great reminder that caring for our city starts with action.
Centering Health & Family
I had the opportunity to attend several powerful events focused on health equity and family support. At the State of Black Healthcare panel, we explored the history and ongoing disparities impacting Black communities in Kansas City. I also joined Uzazi Village for “The Pregame: Fatherhood Edition,” a vital resource equipping men with knowledge about pregnancy, birth, and how to be supportive partners.
Later in the month, I was honored to stand with Uzazi Village as they accepted a proclamation recognizing Black Maternal Health Month highlighting the urgent reality that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications.
Public Safety, Infrastructure & Housing Conversations
Throughout April, I attended several forums and town halls focused on critical issues shaping our neighborhoods. At the “Fighting Fires in Historic Northeast” forum, residents came together to address concerns around preventing fires on dangerous, sometimes vacant properties.
I also joined conversations about reconnecting the East Side and addressing the lasting impacts of US-71, as well as a KC Tenants panel discussing the rising cost of rent and its impact on working families.
Transit & Accessibility
At the Sunrise Movement KC Bus Riders Town Hall, I heard directly from organizers about proposed transit changes, including fare updates and new contactless payment systems. Reliable, accessible transit remains a key priority for our community.
Neighborhood Engagement Across the City
From Ruskin Heights to Vineyard, Valentine to the Santa Fe, I attended neighborhood association meetings across Kansas City to hear directly from residents. These conversations are essential and they shape how we move forward together.
Education & City Planning
I attended the KCPS Budget Meeting and the Neighborhood Summit at the Kauffman Foundation Conference Center, where community leaders gathered to discuss the future of our city and how we can grow more equitably.
Community Events & Campaign Momentum
This month also included meaningful opportunities to connect with supporters and partners. We hosted a Meet & Greet at Two Sugars Coffee, joined the UMKC Black Alumni “Gifted and Black” Brunch, and attended a KC Creatives fundraiser supporting AIRR KC.
Our campaign team also hit the ground running with a literature drop—continuing to meet voters where they are and build momentum.
Looking Ahead
We’ve got an exciting few weeks coming up, and I hope you’ll join us:
Meet & Greet — May 16th from 1–3 PM at The Borough
Literature Drop — May 17th from 3-5 pm
Community Yoga Event — June 12th at 6:30 PM
Meet and Greet — June 27th from 12–2 PM at Core Coffee
These are great opportunities to connect, get involved, and continue building momentum together. I’d love to see you there.
April was a powerful reminder that progress comes from staying engaged, listening deeply, and showing up consistently. I’m grateful to everyone who shared their time, stories, and ideas with me this month.
Let’s keep building a stronger Kansas City together.
— DC