A Look Back & A Way Forward
By Fr. Justin Mathews
There are lots of versions of the history of Troost circulating these days to support new developments and interests on Troost ... But if you omit the displacement of the Osage nation, the Porter slave plantation, racial segregation, redlining, block busting, white flight, economic disinvestment, 1968 riots, impact of the war on drugs, and other formative parts of the history of this street that shape our present, how can you possibly talk about building community or representing the history of Troost?
The racial and economic division that Troost symbolizes today is nothing new. Its roots run deep into the scarred soil of the 200-year history of Troost and can't be ignored as we move forward.
The intersection of 31st and Troost is an iconic corner to say the least. It’s a symbol of our city’s history, but also of the potential of our future. However, In order to be the city we aspire to be, we have to get Troost right. It’s going to take more than poverty programs to heal this division in Kansas City. But also, it’s not enough to address the blight of the buildings. We must also address the blight of the heart. It’s going to take true reconciliation with at least three distinct movements:
1. We must cultivate a community seeking reconciliation—be willing to listen deeply to understand how certain things of the past impacted other families and shaped their lives and struggles today.
2. We need to acknowledge the painful things that have happened on Troost as a starting place for healing, but also celebrate the good and beautiful things we find and build upon them.
3. We all need to share what we can to reduce the most extreme disparities and alleviate the suffering in our city. All ships can rise together if we are intentional.
Reconciliation is our guiding framework and our ultimate vision and mission. Our goal is that anyone who engages with Reconciliation Services, whether they live East or West of Troost Avenue, may increase their personal well-being and advocate for their families and neighbors. And that together, we reveal the hidden strength of our community.
If you want a deeper look at the real history of Troost you can listen to this presentation by RS co-founder, Fr. Alexii Altschul. (click video below)
And you can listen to this poem by RS co-founder, Fr. Alexii, entitled “Troost Village”: