For Immediate Release: Aug. 4, 2026
Contact: Brian Farmer, 573-751-3158
Senator Barbara Anne Washington Helps Designate Observance Days to Honor Local Trailblazers
JEFFERSON CITY — Two Kansas City legends will be taking a regular spot on the calendars of Missourians, drawing attention to their significant contributions to politics, civil rights and music.
Inked into law on July 13, House Bill 2576 designates March 12 as Charlie Parker Day and July 15 as Leon Jordan Day, starting in 2027. Senator Barbara Anne Washington, D-Kansas City, alongside State Rep. Tiffany Price, were instrumental in adding provisions to House Bill 2576 to honor these two Kansas City area trailblazers.
“I’d like to thank my counterpart in the Missouri House of Representatives and the families of these two heroes for their steadfast advocacy in honoring their legacy and passing this legislation,” said Sen. Washington. “Designating a day to celebrate their life and participate in educational events will memorialize their vast contributions and impact in our great city and state.”
Charlie Parker was a saxophonist, band leader and composer who played a leading role in developing bebop in the 1940s. Leon Jordan was an African American politician and civil rights leader who was assassinated in 1970 while serving in the Missouri House of Representatives.
For more information about Sen. Washington’s legislation, please visit her Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Washington.
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