For more than 36 years, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) has created opportunities to unify the Kansas City community with culturally diverse programs, performances, and events.  This September, KCFAA is proud to present our annual Race, Place & Diversity Award to two extraordinary recipients: U.S. Senator Cory Booker and Ms. Judith Jamison, Artistic Director Emerita of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

The Race, Place & Diversity (RPD) Award was created to honor an individual and/or local organization whose actions demonstrate a commitment to advance diversity and equity. We will present our 2020 Awards in an exciting virtual presentations broadcast on selected platforms September 14 & 24, 2020.

Our two honorees will share their contributions to the American cultural landscape and give important insights on race and diversity and its importance to America’s success. Topics discussed include:

Cory Booker – ‘Finding Common Ground’:  In line with the title of his latest book, Senator Booker will speak with Kansas City’s own Chris Hernandez in a live interview about the heightened racial environment and his belief that the virtues of empathy, responsibility, and action must guide our nation toward a brighter future.

 Judith Jamison – Systemic Racism in the Arts:  Tune in for a fascinating conversation with Ms. Jamison facilitated by the 2017 RPD Award winner, choreographer, and actress Debbie Allen. They will discuss the racial challenges Ms. Jamison faced and overcame in her rise to the top and how she paved a way for others to follow in her footsteps.

KCFAA stands in solidarity with the Black community to inspire, influence, and insist on positive change in our neighborhoods and nation regarding advancing racial equity.

Your financial support will make it possible to produce this event that will be shared virtually with a broad audience.  Funds raised will also be used by KCFAA to continue creating programs that promote understanding on race issues to help build a more unified community. To learn more about this event, email us at events@kcfaa.org.