IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing Mattie Rhodes Center’s Dia de Los Muertos Celebration and community partnership.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22091, October 27, 2025
INTRODUCED BY Manuel Abarca IV, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, the Mattie Rhodes Center, a long-standing cultural and social anchor in Kansas City, continues to honor its mission of fostering community empowerment through art, culture and education by hosting its annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration; and,
WHEREAS, this vibrant celebration serves not only as a space for cultural expression and artistic excellence, but also to educate the public about the traditions and meaning behind the Dia de los Muertos, a cherished observance deeply rooted in Mexican heritage that honors the lives and memories of loved ones who have passed; and,
WHEREAS the Mattie Rhodes Center provides vital support to local artists, educators, and performers, offering a platform to showcase their work and celebrate the diversity and creativity that strengthens our community; and,
WHEREAS, in recognition of the Center’s continued cultural leadership and commitment to community healing, Legislator Manuel Abrca IV, on behalf of the Jackson County Legislature, is donating $1,500 to support a Day of the Dead installation on the first floor of the Jackson County Courthouse; and,
WHEREAS these funds will be utilized by the Mattie Rhodes Center to construct and install honorary cemeteries that both commemorate the rising homicide rate and honor those we have lost to community acts of violence, serving as solemn and artistic call of reflection and action; and,
WHEREAS this installation will be developed in collaboration with the Jackson County Prosector’s Office and will include voluntary participation from families whose loved ones have been impacted by violence, ensuring the project remains rooted in community voice, healing and remembrance; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Legislature of Jackson County that the Legislature hereby recognizes and commends the Mattie Rhodes Center for its leadership in preserving cultural traditions, uplifting the arts, and creating meaningful community dialogue through its Dia de los Muertos celebration and commemorative installations; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Legislature expresses its gratitude to all partners involved for their collaborative efforts in transforming grief into action and art, affirming Jackson County’s commitment to cultural recognition, violence prevention, and community healing.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This resolution shall be effective immediately upon its passage by a majority of the Legislature.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
County Counselor
Certificate of Passage
I hereby certify that the attached resolution, Resolution No. 22091 of October 27, 2025, was duly passed on ______________________________, 2025 by the Jackson County Legislature. The votes thereon were as follows:
Yeas _________________ Nays ___________
Abstaining ___________ Absent ____________
______________________ ______________________________
Date Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of Legislature