The Jackson County Freedom Wall Commission seeks to recognize outstanding individuals who have demonstrated, either currently or in the past, exceptional leadership qualities in their ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life in the urban community. Individuals chosen should be those whose work significantly impacts the African American community in Jackson County, Missouri. Nominees can be living or honored posthumously.
Individuals nominated for this recognition will have demonstrated several of the following examples of exceptional community leadership and service:
- Portray a positive attitude, articulate a positive sense of direction and project hope for individuals and the forward movement of the African American community
- Have a commitment to the values of justice and caring
- Demonstrate a passion to serve others
- Create opportunities for engagement and/or involvement
- Exhibit particular tenacity or energy in pursuing equality for the African American community
- Develop awareness of equality/welfare in others (i.e. through positive role modeling, through teaching & learning initiatives or curriculum development)
- Identify opportunities to enhance the quality of life of vulnerable individuals
- Collaborate, communicate or cooperate to enable or enhance welfare or equality provisions
- Demonstrate outstanding leadership skills with external partners/agencies/organizations to strengthen the engagement with county, city, and/or state, to forge active collaborations and alliances to enhance the well-being of the African American community
- Have influence in the development and mentoring of future leaders (youth & young adults) in the community or involvement in professional or community leadership development experiences
- Make significant accomplishments in and efforts toward promoting the principles of diversity within the greater community
- Create a compelling vision for the future and help others understand their role in achieving it
- Create opportunities and provide the tools, information and resources when working towards achievement of projects that benefit the African American community
- Take prompt and decisive action to resolve community issues that effectively benefit the African American community directly or indirectly
Each year through 2028, the new Honorees will be added to the Monument to Freedom, Justice and Courage as directed by the Commission. Nominees not selected can be reconsidered for the next year’s honoree cycle.
Based on submitted nominations, all nominees will be evaluated by the Commission on the quality of their leadership and community experience and the extent to which they have made meaningful contributions to the development, growth and sustainability of the African American community as defined in the eligibility requirements.
The more information provided about the nominee the better, as this information is key in considering them for this recognition. When nominating an individual, be sure to include a thorough description of their contributions to the community, including all of their achievements. The nomination packet must include the following:
- The nominator is required to provide a bio (typed, not handwritten) along with a full description (in 1000 words or less) of the accomplishment(s) of their nominee. Explain why they believe the individual should be considered for the recognition.
- The nominator must ensure the nomination package is as complete as possible. The nomination form and supporting documentation should make the full case for the nominee. The nominator will not have a further opportunity to submit additional information nor make the case for a nominee after the deadline.
- Nominators will be required to submit the nomination form and supporting documentation in one packet or uploaded as one document.
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The Monument surrounds the statue of Leon M. Jordan in the
Kansas City park that bears his name at 31st & Benton Boulevard. |
Nomination Subject Areas
- Arts/Entertainment
- Business
- Civil Rights/Activism
- Community Organizing/Engagement
- Education
- Faith/Religion
- Healthcare/Medicine
- Law/Criminal Justice
- Media
- Mentoring
- Neighborhood Leadership
- Politics
- Social Engagement
- Sports
This list of subject areas is not exclusive and is meant to be helpful when thinking about potential nominees.
Nominations will not be considered:
- if received after the closing date;
- if the nomination form is not used or is incomplete;
- if the supportive documentation is not submitted with the nomination form.
The deadline for receipt of nomination forms with supporting documentation is February 29, 2020.
Please complete the Monument to Freedom, Justice and Courage Nomination Form online