American Public Square at Jewell is pleased to release our 2021 Annual Report

Kansas City, MO: American Public Square at Jewell (APS) has released its 2021 Annual Report, highlighting the organization’s continued efforts to increase civility, facts and perspective in our nation’s discourse.

Many believed 2021 would offer much-needed stability after the considerable challenges faced in 2020. Yet, the start of 2021 was marked by an unprecedented breach of the U.S. Capitol. The following days, weeks and months would bring the inauguration of President Joe Biden, the roll out of the COVID-19 vaccine, a historic military withdrawal from Afghanistan, increased antisemitic events following heightened tensions between Israel and Palestine, and more. Each of these events underscored the fact that our nation’s divisions are far from healed. At APS, they were clear reminders that the role we play in our nation’s discourse remains incredibly important.

The 2021 APS Annual Report highlights the organization’s efforts to address ongoing divides across the nation, while also working to return to a new normal as COVID vaccines created an opportunity to return to in-person gatherings. In the report, readers will find stories highlighting:

• How APS programming addressed top-of-mind issues, such as a path forward after January 6th, racial reconciliation, the COVID-19 vaccine, the rise of antisemitism and more.
• An evening of unity at the 2021 Evening at the Square event featuring Professor Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett, authors of “The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again.”
• The evolution of APS’ Civics Education Initiative, which deepened its focus on student engagement and the topics of misinformation, civil engagement, and debating vs. deliberation.
• And more!

View the report here.

Media inquiries can be directed to Robin Smith via email [email protected].