RESOLUTION NO. 250634
title
Sponsor: Councilmember Johnathan Duncan
RESOLUTION - Recognizing and honoring the nonprofit organization Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation (AIRR) for their contributions to immigrant communities in Kansas City and beyond by organizing, activating, and mobilizing immigrant communities and allies through community-driven action, programming and education.
body
WHEREAS, originally founded as a faith-based organization in 2006 called “People of Faith for Hospitality and Justice” whose focus was centered on equal rights and justice for all, leaders recognized the ever-growing need within their communities and renamed the organization Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation in 2010; and
WHEREAS, AIRR has empowered thousands of immigrants and allies with the necessary tools to feel protected in their own communities through Know Your Rights and Immigration training; and
WHEREAS, in response to increased threats to the immigrant community AIRR has trained 4,000 individuals through community defense and block watch programs in 2025; and
WHEREAS, AIRR has organized direct actions and participated in grassroots community organizing to address issues directly impacting immigrant communities, such as conducting community engagement in multiple languages to inform the City’s first Office of Language Access, impeding efforts to expand immigrant detention facilities, monitoring anti-immigrant legislation, and mobilizing eligible voters to the polls; and
WHEREAS, AIRR continues to fight tirelessly to achieve its stated vision to create “a world where all individuals, regardless of birthplace, live in a reconciled and just community, free to pursue their dreams without fear of being an immigrant;” NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize and honor AIRR for their advocacy work through education, leadership development, and community-driven action to foster a welcoming environment that values justice, dignity, and reconciliation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to the Advocates of Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation with the gratitude of the Mayor and Council for their work to create a future where immigrants' rights are respected and upheld.
end
______________________________________________________