‘Step towards healing’: First-ever ‘Hike for Reconciliation’ plans trek across Kansas City

Reconciliation Services, a Kansas City non-profit organization, announced their inaugural three-mile Hike for Reconciliation, taking place on Saturday, Nov. 4 at 10:30 a.m.

The event aims to unite Kansas City residents from all walks of life through solidarity, education and reflection, according to Reconciliation Services.

Kansas Citians will meet for a community celebration at the KCATA lot at 31st Street and Troost Avenue, prior to the hike along the Troost Corridor, Troost Park and the east side of the historical racial dividing line in Kansas City.

Reconciliation Services hopes having the walk along the historical dividing line will give participants an opportunity to learn about the, “challenging aspects of our history and the legacy left by slavery and disinvestment,” the organization said.

The event will also shed light on the issue of poverty in Troost Avenue, which stems from a past of racial injustice, Reconciliation Services said.

“Historic discrimination and disinvestment made Troost Avenue the racial and economic dividing line of our city. As a result, there are thousands of people struggling to survive and succeed, trapped in poverty and trauma,” said Father Justin Matthews, the executive director.

Participants can donate to the organization at the event to provide assistance to neighbors in need of social and mental services, according to Reconciliation Services.

The organization is asking those who may want to participate or donate to visit their website at www.RSHike.org.

This story was originally published November 3, 2023 at 2:25 PM.