Celisa Calacal
Race and Culture ReporterAs KCUR’s Race and Culture reporter, I use history as a guide and build connections with people to craft stories about joy, resilience and struggle. I spotlight the diverse people and communities who make Kansas City a more welcoming place, whether through food, housing or public service. . Follow me on Twitter @celisa_mia or email me at celisa@kcur.org.
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Protesters in downtown Kansas City emphasized the importance of coming together to oppose President Donald Trump's policies, which they fear will disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. -
As the U.S. celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day and marks Trump's second inauguration, Kansas City activists worry the new president will follow through on campaign promises like mass deportations and clamping down on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. But they are also hopeful that people in their networks can band together and fight back. -
The Palestinian American Medical Association, founded in Kansas City in 2013, works to ensure Palestinians have access to the health care they need. Since the current war began last year, their work has become even more critical. -
Tenant unions in Kansas City and Independence started a rent strike in October in response to deteriorating living conditions that went unaddressed by landlords. There have been some small improvements since, but residents have also experienced what they consider retaliation. -
After a months-long standoff, two factions in the legislature finally agreed on how to spend federal COVID relief money — just days before it would have been sent back to the federal government. -
The shopping season between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a big boost to local businesses. In a year marred by a rash of property crimes against small shops, cafes, and restaurants, Kansas City business owners have extra cause to hope shoppers spend their money in town. -
The county no longer has to make property assessment changes that would have upended a process mired by lawsuits and criticism from residents and county legislators. -
The open-air venue in Kansas City's Power & Light District, originally built with millions in public funds, has been home to concerts and watch parties for major sporting events. Upgrades are slated for completion by next spring. -
The popular gas station and travel center will be located near the Kansas Speedway. Construction is slated to start in May 2025. -
The city council approved a plan in September to build a holding facility on the 8th floor of KCPD headquarters downtown. In a recent letter to city officials, Graves says officials should consider a different location.
