Community Film Screening: Elephant in the Room

Phillip Arthur Dixon was raised in the Kansas City metropolitan area. He received his bachelor’s degree from Fisk University and his master’s degree from the University of Kansas – both degrees in the subject of African-American history. He then went on to serve as a professor at Kansas City, Kansas, Community College, as well as worked as a film writer, director and producer.

Phillip helped create Meet in the Middle, a Kansas City dating show hosted out of The Bird Comedy Theater.

Tammy Coder Mikinski is a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist, and member of the global Gottman Referral Network. She offers inclusive and collaborative counseling for individuals and families facing a wide range of common issues.

Dr. Mikinski has advanced training in Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Child-centered Play Therapy, Integrative Mental Health, Treating Affairs and Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, plus EMDR-modalities.  In 2022, Dr. Mikinski was awarded the Bob and Kathie Taylor Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Kia and Derek Walsh bring unique and complementary perspectives to community, policy, and civic engagement conversations. Kia is a passionate advocate for social equity and education, working to empower individuals and organizations through leadership development and policy initiatives. She has spent her career fostering dialogue across diverse viewpoints to drive meaningful change.

Derek, an avid gun owner and Second Amendment supporter, approaches discussions with a right-of-center perspective, emphasizing personal responsibility, constitutional rights, and pragmatic solutions. While this is his first time participating in a panel discussion, he values open, respectful conversations on complex issues and looks forward to sharing his perspective.

Kia and Derek’s story is one of serendipity and second chances. They first met in the mid-90s and went to prom together before life took them in different directions. Nearly 25 years later, they reconnected and found their bond stronger than ever. As a married couple, they bring their distinct viewpoints into their relationship with respect and open dialogue.

Outside their professional and civic interests, they enjoy building lowrider cars, chauffeuring their teenager, and traveling. They are excited to be part of this event and contribute to a balanced, thought-provoking discussion.