Community Groups in Frankfort Host Dialogue on Race Relations

Residents of Frankfort, Kentucky, are invited to participate in an upcoming community discussion focused on race relations, organized by local advocacy groups including Focus on Race Relations (FORR), Frankfort Anti-Racism Advocates (FARA), and the Public Service and Public Life (PSPL) initiative. The event aims to foster open dialogue, promote understanding, and address systemic challenges related to racial equity in the capital city.

As conversations about race and inclusion continue to shape public discourse nationwide, local leaders in Frankfort are working to create spaces where residents can share experiences, learn from one another, and collaborate on solutions. This initiative reflects a broader trend of municipal-level engagement on racial justice, particularly in mid-sized cities seeking to bridge divides through structured, facilitated conversations.

Organizers and Their Missions

The collaboration between FORR, FARA, and PSPL brings together organizations with complementary goals in advancing racial equity:

• Focus on Race Relations (FORR) is a grassroots collective dedicated to facilitating honest conversations about race, implicit bias, and historical inequities in Central Kentucky. The group has hosted workshops and listening sessions since its founding in 2020, often partnering with schools and faith-based institutions.
• Frankfort Anti-Racism Advocates (FARA) focuses on policy advocacy and community education, working to identify and dismantle discriminatory practices in local government, housing, and employment. FARA has previously collaborated with the Frankfort Human Rights Commission on audits of municipal hiring practices.
• Public Service and Public Life (PSPL), an initiative affiliated with Kentucky State University, promotes civic engagement and democratic participation through public forums, voter education, and leadership training. PSPL has organized several town halls on social justice topics over the past three years.

Together, these groups aim to ensure the discussion is inclusive, well-facilitated, and grounded in both personal narratives and data-informed insights.

Event Details and Objectives

The community dialogue is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. To 1:00 p.m. At the Frankfort Convention Center, located at 300 Wilkinson Boulevard. The event is free and open to all residents, with childcare and light refreshments provided.

Key objectives of the session include:

• Creating a safe space for residents of all backgrounds to share personal experiences related to race and discrimination.
• Educating attendees on the historical context of race relations in Franklin County and Kentucky.
• Identifying actionable steps individuals and institutions can take to promote equity.
• Strengthening networks between community organizations, local leaders, and residents.

The discussion will be facilitated by trained moderators experienced in conflict resolution and racial equity dialogue. Breakout sessions will allow for smaller group conversations, followed by a plenary session to share insights and propose next steps.

Why This Conversation Matters in Frankfort

Frankfort, as the state capital, holds a unique position in Kentucky’s social and political landscape. With a population of approximately 28,000, the city is demographically diverse, with Black residents making up about 13% of the population according to the latest U.S. Census data — higher than the state average of 8.5%.

Despite this diversity, disparities persist in areas such as income, education, and criminal justice. A 2023 report by the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy found that Black residents in Franklin County are nearly twice as likely to live below the poverty line compared to white residents. Data from the Frankfort Police Department shows Black drivers are disproportionately represented in traffic stops, though the department has implemented bias training in recent years.

Local advocates say these statistics underscore the need for sustained, honest dialogue. “We’re not just talking about racism as individual prejudice,” said a spokesperson for FARA. “We’re examining how policies, practices, and cultural norms create unequal outcomes — and how we can change them together.”

How to Participate

Residents interested in attending can register online through the FORR website or by contacting FARA via email at info@frankfortara.org. While registration is encouraged to help with planning, walk-ins are welcome.

Organizers emphasize that the event is designed to be accessible and respectful of all viewpoints. “This isn’t about assigning blame,” said a PSPL coordinator. “It’s about building a shared understanding and a shared commitment to making Frankfort a place where everyone can thrive.”

Following the dialogue, the organizing groups plan to compile a summary of themes and recommendations to share with city officials, the Frankfort Human Rights Commission, and local school boards.

Community Impact and Ongoing Efforts

This event is part of a broader effort to strengthen civic infrastructure around racial equity in Frankfort. In recent years, the city has seen increased participation in Juneteenth celebrations, the establishment of a diversity advisory committee within the mayor’s office, and expanded training for municipal employees on cultural competency.

Similar dialogues have been held in other Kentucky cities, including Lexington and Louisville, often resulting in concrete policy proposals such as civilian oversight boards for police or equity impact assessments for municipal budgets.

By centering resident voices and fostering intergroup dialogue, Frankfort’s leaders hope to build trust, reduce polarization, and lay the groundwork for lasting change.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on Race Relations (FORR), Frankfort Anti-Racism Advocates (FARA), and PSPL are co-hosting a community dialogue on race relations in Frankfort on June 15, 2024.
• The event aims to create a safe space for honest conversation, education, and collaborative problem-solving around racial equity.
• Frankfort faces documented disparities in income, policing, and opportunity, particularly affecting its Black residents.
• The discussion will be facilitated by trained moderators and include breakout sessions and a plenary discussion.
• Residents can register online or attend as walk-ins; childcare and refreshments will be provided.
• Outcomes will be shared with local officials to inform future policy and community initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the event open to everyone?

Yes, the dialogue is open to all Frankfort residents regardless of race, age, or background. Organizers encourage broad participation to ensure diverse perspectives are heard.

Will there be opportunities to speak?

Yes, the event includes both small-group discussions and a full-group session where participants can share thoughts and suggestions.

Is childcare available?

Yes, free childcare will be provided on-site for attendees who need it.

How can I stay informed about future events?

You can follow FORR, FARA, and PSPL on their respective websites or social media channels for updates on upcoming dialogues, workshops, and advocacy efforts.

Is this event affiliated with the city government?

While the event is organized by independent community groups, organizers have informed city officials and are seeking collaboration with municipal departments such as the Human Rights Commission.