New year, same values.
Hey y’all, it’s DC Okonta.
As we begin a new year, my commitment to Kansas City remains the same: showing up for our neighbors, standing against injustice, and building a community rooted in dignity, safety, and care.
In recent weeks, ICE raids and enforcement actions have continued to create fear and instability for families across our region. These actions are unacceptable and unwanted in Kansas City. Our community deserves to feel safe at school, at work, and in their own neighborhoods without the threat of separation or violence.
Kansas City is strongest when we lead with dignity, humanity, and care for one another. Criminalizing immigrants and terrorizing families runs counter to our values and does nothing to make our city safer. I stand with community members, organizers, and local leaders who have made it clear that ICE has no place targeting our neighbors here.
That being said, there’s a lot of work to do. I’ve been busy this January listening, learning, serving, and taking action alongside so many of you. Here’s a snapshot of where I’ve been and where I’ll be this month.
Recent Events & Actions
January 8
I attended the Stop ICE Terror Rally in front of City Hall, where I spoke briefly about ICE activity near elementary schools in Northeast neighborhoods and highlighted how community members stepped up to protect one another.
January 10
Joined the Stand with Minneapolis Vigil for the Victims of ICE, with special recognition of Silverio Villegas González, who was killed as a result of ICE actions in September.
January 11
Participated in a Community Defense Workshop hosted by Missouri State Representative Wick Thomas, focused on empowering residents with tools for collective safety and response.
January 12
Met with organizers at the Justice and Dignity Center for introductions and conversation about ongoing and future collaboration.
January 14
Dropped off donated coats at Uzazi Village to support families during the winter months. Learn more about Uzazi Village and their mission of improving maternal and infant health for Black and Brown families at https://uzazivillage.org/
January 15
Attended the Midtown Democrats Social Meeting at Brewer’s Kitchen—great conversation and connection.
January 18
Attended a Community Defense Training hosted by Boots on the Ground Midwest in South KC
Attended the postcard protest to at the Waldo Public Library to let our reps know we need to prioritize healthcare, education, and housing, not the funding of ICE
Attended the From Minneapolis to KC fundraiser at Blip Coffee to help raise money for immigrant families.
Upcoming Events
January 19
I’ll be joining the MLK Day of Service at Uzazi Village to honor Dr. King through direct community action.
January 20
I’ll be attending a Stop ICE Protest followed by the Northland Democrats Meeting.
January 21
Attended UMKC’s Alumni Rowdy Roos Bingo Night Event at Boulevard Brewing Co
Attended Grace Filled Conversations: Immigration at Good Shepherd Church in the Northland
January 23
Attended the ICE OUT march in downtown KC
January 24th
Rapid Response Training Hosted by KCDSA
January 25
Serving Community Breakfast at Unity Southeast KC
January 29
I plan to attend the Hyde Park Neighborhood Night to connect with neighbors and discuss local priorities.
January 31
Planning to attend the Midtown Democrats monthly meeting
February 7th
I’ll be hosting a Meet and Greet at Good Karma Coffee from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. talking to community members about the future of Kansas City.
As we navigate ongoing fear and harm especially related to ICE enforcement, I want to remind everyone to take care of yourselves and each other. Rest when you need to, check in on your people, and lean on your community when things feel heavy. Caring for one another is not separate from this work—it is the work.
Justice, compassion, accountability, and community care continue to guide where I show up and how I lead. Thank you to everyone who has taken time to organize, volunteer, donate, attend, and speak out. I look forward to continuing this work together in the months ahead.
As always, I hope to see you out in the community.
Be sure to follow the campaign @DC4KC on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with real-time updates.
YOUR RIGHTS by AIRR KC
The 1st Amendment
You have the right to record interactions with law enforcement officers. Back off if ordered.
The 4th Amendment
You have the right to refuse a search without a warrant.
The 5th Amendment
You have the right to remain silent
You have the right to legal representation
You have the right to due process of law
Red Card Script - Immigrant Legal Resource Center
I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.
I do not give you permission to enter my home (or private space) based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.
I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.
I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.