REQUESTED MEETING DATE: 2/23/2026
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To be confirmed by County Counselor’s Office:
STAFF CONTACT: Leonetta Brown PHONE: 816-881-3075
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DEPARTMENT: Legislative
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TITLE: Honoring the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City in Recognition of Black History Month
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SUMMARY: Click or tap here to enter text.Honoring the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City in Recognition of Black History Month
WHEREAS, the Black Archives of Mid-America, Inc. was founded on May 8, 1974, by Horace M. Peterson III, a visionary historian and preservationist whose dedication to safeguarding African American heritage transformed the cultural landscape of Kansas City and the Midwest; and
WHEREAS, the organization first opened its doors at 1821 Paseo in the historic Paseo YMCA building, and in 1976 relocated to 2033 Vine Street, the former Firehouse No. 11-an iconic structure in Kansas City’s Historic 18th and Vine District that once housed the city’s first Black fire company and stands as a testament to African American service, resilience, and civic pride; and
WHEREAS, the Black Archives of Mid-America was established with the express purpose of collecting, preserving, and sharing the rich social, economic, political, and cultural histories of African Americans in the central United States, with particular emphasis on the Kansas City region; and
WHEREAS, the Archives serves as a vital educational resource and repository, safeguarding materials that reflect the breadth of African American life, including music, art, theater, education, military service, medicine, sports, religion, and community affairs; and
WHEREAS, interpretive programs, research services, and special projects, in which the Black Archives has played a pivotal role in dispelling negative stereotypes, elevating historical understanding, and fostering community pride, earning widespread support from residents, scholars, and cultural institutions; and
WHEREAS, Horace M. Peterson III envisioned a revitalized 18th and Vine District that would honor and uplift African American contributions, a dream that helped inspire the development of the Kansas City Jazz Museum, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the restoration of the historic Gem Theater-each now a cornerstone of the district’s cultural identity; and
WHEREAS, the Black Archives continues to advance its mission by providing public access to its collections for research, exhibition, and publication, thereby honoring community heritage and catalyzing public awareness during Black History Month and throughout the year;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that this body proudly recognizes and honors the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City for its enduring commitment to preserving African American history, educating future generations, and enriching the cultural fabric of our community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we celebrate the legacy of Horace M. Peterson III and extend our deepest appreciation to the staff, volunteers, supporters, and community partners who continue to uphold the Archives’ mission and ensure that the stories of African Americans in the Midwest are preserved, honored, and shared for generations to come.
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ACTION NEEDED: COURTESY (NO LEGAL IMPACT)
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