IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION honoring Joe Arce, a journalist and community leader.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22064, October 6, 2025
INTRODUCED BY Manuel Abarca IV, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Joe and Ramona Arce have devoted their lives to journalism, community service, and the empowerment of Latino voices in Kansas City and beyond; and,
WHEREAS, together they have served on and supported numerous influential organizations including the Guadalupe Centers and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City, helping shape policies and programs that strengthen the Latino community; and,
WHEREAS, Joe and Ramona cofounded the Hispanic Media Association, which provides scholarships to Latino students pursuing careers in journalism, ensuring that the future of media includes diverse perspectives and storytellers; and,
WHEREAS, during Joe's 15 years as chair of the Cesar E. Chavez Committee at the University of Central Missouri, he was instrumental in raising over $200,000.00 in scholarships to attract and support Latino students, leaving a lasting legacy of educational opportunity; and,
WHEREAS, Joe's work reflects a lifetime of advocacy, mentorship, and dedication to building stronger, more inclusive communities through media and education; and,
WHEREAS, we recognize and celebrate Joe Arce for his decades of leadership, his tireless work to uplift Latino students and journalists, and his invaluable contributions to Kansas City's civic and cultural life; and,
WHEREAS, Ramona's partnership and contributions alongside Joe have amplified the reach of their shared mission advocating for representation, mentoring emerging leaders, and preserving the cultural and historical narratives of the Latino community; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the Jackson County Legislature does hereby honor Joe Arce as a journalist and community leader.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This resolut...
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