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Opinion

SHUT IT DOWN, GET ICE OUT! Nationwide General Strike January 30th

Following Minnesota's massively successful general strike, unions across the nation are calling for a nationwide general strike this Friday, January 30th. As ICE continues to terrorize our communities, the time to stand up and fight back is here. No politician is going to save us. Only we can save us.

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Latest in Opinion
Urbavore’s “Save The Farm” Campaign was Nothing More Than Performative Activism

For nearly two years, Urbavore's pursued control over land in a historically Black neighborhood but their self-serving and manipulative tactics contribute to a larger conversation about race, power dynamics, and urban agriculture in Kansas City.

Unhinged Lee’s Summit School Board Member Unleashes Conspiracy-Laden Facebook Post Attacking Black Parents & Journalist

Lee’s Summit School Board Vice President Heather Eslick unleashed a race-fueled, conspiracy-laden attack against Black parents and The Kansas City Defender's Editor. But this isn’t new—it’s part of a long history of white supremacist fear-mongering and coded dog-whistles. Here’s why we won’t be silent.

Beauty or Battlefield? Navigating the Modern Hair Industry as a Black Woman

As the Black hair industry evolves, so do the challenges for young Black women seeking quality, care, and respect. From last-minute cancellations to unclear policies, many are left frustrated and questioning the professionalism of their stylists. Through personal stories and industry-wide concerns, many Black women now ask: Is the modern hair experience a battlefield?

How Marcellus Khaliifah Williams’s Story Shines Light on the Injustices within the Legal System

In response to the August 21 Consent Judgement, Kansas City's Poet Laureate Melissa Ferrer Civil sheds light on the concept of justice in her op-ed, emphasizing a nurturing approach over punishment. Through Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams’ story, she challenges the flaws in the current legal system and advocates for a more compassionate and dignified treatment of individuals.

Black Education & the Importance of Fetching What Has Been Forgotten

In her op-ed essay, Dr. Marlee Bunch--author of The Magnitude of Us--discusses her teaching framework, which centers on vital principles such as uniting for collective change, centering marginalized histories, using stories in the classroom & much more.

Chester Brewer, “Father” of Mizzou’s Homecoming, is NOT someone we should be celebrating

Mizzou's homecoming events wouldn't be possible without Chester Brewer, a former football player and Athletic Director at University of Missouri-Columbia in the early 1900s. However, there is one distinction about him swept under the rug: he is racist.

Racism Scandal Fallout: Summit Christian Academy President’s Response Exemplifies Everything Wrong with the School

Amidst the scandal at Summit Christian Academy, the President's response — minimizing hate speech — casts doubts on his leadership and the school's commitment to combatting racial violence.

To Earn My Vote, the Royals Need to Sign a Good Jobs Community Benefits Agreement 

No corporate handouts: If the Royals want my hard-earned tax dollars, they need to guarantee workers like me living-wage union jobs and truly affordable housing in their new ballpark and entertainment district.

In Pursuit of Black Love: A Conversation About Black Love & Its Revolutionary Power

In the warmth of shared stories and reflections, we delve into the essence of Black love—its history as a revolutionary act, its role in community building, and its power to challenge societal norms. This piece invites readers to engage in a dialogue that redefines and celebrates Black love's transformative influence.

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