Mayor Q's Kansas City Charter Review Commish Excludes Latinos

Tonight local Latino leaders notice their absence at an event that will shape Kansas City's future.

We've talked to more than a few leaders about this topic and most of them are honestly surprised at the clear lack of political representation.

The basics . . .

DESPITE STEADILY RISING POPULATION NUMBERS, THERE AREN'T ANY LATINOS ON KANSAS CITY'S CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION!!!

Again . . . We expect KC Hispanic News and a few other outlets to pick up the story. 

However . . . Per ushe . . . TKC has the deets FIRST.

Insiders notice that leaders for KC Tenants have a spot in the discussion . . . 

 Wilson Vance, organizing director for KC Tenants, represents the 4th District is part of the commish.

For many, this shows that representation selected by Mayor Q was thoughtful and politically minded. 

Insiders tell us: 

"Is the Mayor is putting his political allegiances to KC Tenants first over Latinos who have lived & worked in Kansas City for generations?!?!"

Currently . . .

Latino leaders just now getting word of this tonight and seem to be quickly mobilizing in order to bring forward their objections. 

As word circulates within the community . . . 

Here is a quote from Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca on the situation:

"In the statement for the media release, Mayor Lucas said, “I am proud to lead efforts toward a stronger and more representative City for all”. . . BBut the fastest growing population, Latinos, were left out of the decision making process.

"For decades, well intentioned folks continued to disenfranchise the Latino community and here is another example of when we aren’t at the table, it creates prime opportunity for us to be on the menu. And on the menu potentially for the next decade.  

"I am glad to see progressive leaders included, but we must not lose sight on the importance of representation-from the parks board to the charter commission, we deserve a seat EVERY time not just sometimes. Not just at the City, but across the city/county/etc.

"These changes will last a decade and their influence may set precedents that we should be able to help direct.

"For example, could you imagine if we reduced the amount of at-large council members to have more in-district officers-leaving minorities communities with more (possible 2 for Latinos-one for the Westside and one for the Northeast) but instead aren’t at the table to lead these discussions."

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Again . . .

Far more serious people than TKC are taking notice of this slight that contradictions so much talk of inclusion by the current leadership at 12th & Oak.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

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