Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills Recognized on Kansas Senate Floor

Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) was recently recognized on the Kansas Senate floor for its work in preserving the historic Shepard Chapel and advancing the vision for the Yuma Street Cultural Center & Entrepreneur Hub.

This recognition marks an important moment for BEFH and for the broader community. It reflects the significance of preserving Black history while also creating spaces and opportunities that support Black entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and long-term community investment across Kansas.

The preservation of Shepard Chapel is about more than restoring a historic building. It is about honoring the legacy, stories, and contributions of Black community members whose history deserves to be remembered, protected, and shared.

At the same time, the Yuma Street Cultural Center & Entrepreneur Hub represents a forward-looking investment in what is possible for the Flint Hills. This vision includes creating a space where culture, connection, creativity, and entrepreneurship can thrive, offering future generations a place to gather, grow, and build.

To have this work acknowledged at the state level is both meaningful and affirming. It is a reminder that preserving history and investing in Black entrepreneurs are deeply connected efforts that strengthen communities for generations to come.

BEFH extends sincere thanks to the Kansas Senate, Senator Brad Starnes, and Representative Sydney Carlin for this recognition and for acknowledging the importance of this work.

As BEFH continues to grow its impact in the Flint Hills and beyond, this moment serves as a powerful reminder: we are building something lasting.

And we’re just getting started.