News Summary
Kansas City honors remarkable Black figures this February in recognition of their significant contributions to culture and history. Events include a powerful Grammy ad and initiatives by local organizations to highlight lesser-known talents like Claude ‘Fiddler’ Williams and Anne Thomas. The celebration encourages year-round awareness of Black history, with the Kansas City Royals Foundation offering free access to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum throughout the month, inviting the community to learn and reflect on the impact of these extraordinary individuals.
Celebrating the Legacy of Black Kansas Citians This Black History Month!
This February, Kansas City is taking a moment to recognize and honor some truly remarkable figures in Black history. As the nation engages in serious conversations surrounding racial equity, it’s essential to reflect on the countless contributions of Black individuals who have significantly impacted the cultural fabric of the United States and, more specifically, Kansas City.
A Powerful Message at the Grammys
A commercial aired during the 2025 Grammy Awards, under the powerful slogan “You can’t ban greatness,”, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of Black history in American culture. Highlighting sports legend Michael Jordan, the ad emphasizes that no matter the political actions taken to diminish diversity and inclusion, history—especially Black history—remains an undeniable part of America’s story.
Local Honors with a Purpose
This Black History Month, The Star, in collaboration with the Black Archives of Mid-America, Kansas City Public Library, and the Local Investment Commission (LINC), is shining a spotlight on lesser-known but incredibly impactful Black Kansas Citians. These honorees not only made waves in their respective fields but also left a lasting imprint on the community, proving that the significance of Black history goes beyond just a month of celebration.
Spotlight on Claude “Fiddler” Williams
One of the featured individuals is the talented musician Claude “Fiddler” Williams. Born in 1908 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Williams became a leading presence in the Kansas City jazz scene. His talent was undeniable—he earned the title of “Best Guitarist of the Year” from DownBeat magazine back in 1936 and collaborated with legends like Nat King Cole and Count Basie. Williams released his first album, “Call for the Fiddler,” in 1976, eventually continuing to create music until his final album, “Swingin’ the Blues,” dropped in 2000, just before he passed away in 2004 at the age of 96. Truly, his contributions to jazz have left an indelible mark on the genre.
The Inspiring Legacy of Anne Thomas
Another exceptional figure featured this month is Anne Thomas, born Anne Jenkins in Denver. As an educator and advocate for school integration, she broke boundaries and made great strides in civil rights. Thomas made history herself as the first Black president of the YWCA in 1958 and tirelessly worked to improve education opportunities for Black students. She was a vital force at R.T. Coles Vocational School, which played a key role in providing industrial education for Black youth. Even until her passing in 2002, Thomas continued to serve as a beacon of hope and advocacy for equal rights.
A Baseball Legend: Frank Duncan Jr.
Frank Duncan Jr., a celebrated name in the world of baseball, also played a crucial role in the history of Black athletics. Known for his remarkable skills as a catcher and lightning-fast base runner, Duncan was pivotal to the success of the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Leagues. He helped lead the team to three consecutive league pennants and made history by playing in the inaugural Negro Leagues World Series in 1924. Duncan later took on the role of player manager, guiding the Monarchs to another championship in 1946. Following his passing in 1973, his funeral saw former teammates honoring his legacy by carrying his casket, an emotional testament to the respect he garnered throughout his life.
A Month of Learning and Reflection
As Kansas City celebrates these extraordinary individuals, it’s important to remember that recognizing Black history shouldn’t be limited to just February. In an effort to foster awareness and education, the Kansas City Royals Foundation is sponsoring free admission to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum throughout February 2025. This initiative encourages everyone to explore the rich history of Black baseball and understand its significance in the broader narrative of American sports and culture.
With over 16,000 visitors in February 2024, the museum stands as a key resource for those eager to learn about the past and embrace the profound impact of Black history year-round. So, this month, dive into the stories of Kansas City’s own Black history makers and honor their legacies, ensuring that their achievements remain celebrated for generations to come!
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City Star
- Wikipedia: Black History
- Fox 4 KC
- Google Search: Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Google Scholar: Black History Month
- KPLC TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Claude Williams
- KSNT News
- Google News: Black History Month
