RESOLUTION NO. 250425
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Sponsor: Councilmember Melissa Patterson Hazley
RESOLUTION - Honoring the 18th & Vine Arts Festival for its contributions to the arts, culture, and community in Kansas City.
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WHEREAS, the 18th & Vine Arts Festival, founded by Marquez “Quez” Beasley, is a premier celebration of Black art, culture, and heritage in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine District; and
WHEREAS, the annual multi-day festival showcases Black artists in visual arts, music, dance, fashion, literary arts, and film, drawing over 10,000 attendees and creating economic opportunities while fostering cultural pride; and
WHEREAS, the festival provides a platform for Black artists to share their voices, bridging Kansas City’s rich cultural history with contemporary artistic expression and preserving the spirit of 18th & Vine; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 theme, Celebrating Black Cinema, will highlight the contributions of Black filmmakers and storytellers through exhibitions, performances, and educational programming; and
WHEREAS, the festival continues to expand its impact by developing digital archives, increasing accessibility, and supporting local and national artists; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council honor the 18th & Vine Arts Festival for its extraordinary contributions to arts, culture, and community, and its commitment to preserving Black artistry; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council, with copies presented to Marquez “Quez” Beasley and the 18th & Vine Arts Festival Foundation in recognition of their lasting impact.
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