Kansas City businessman, State Penal Institution Expert, and (licensed- pending) Criminal Psychologist/ Therapist, Mr. Kevin Strickland is a shining example of human resilience,  determination, self-advocacy, and old- fashioned, stubborn hope.

At the age of 18, Mr. Strickland was wrongfully convicted of a brutal crime and spent 4 decades in a Missouri prison, while consistently proclaiming and insisting his innocence. After 43 years of unwavering self-advocacy, despite being unlawfully accused, convicted, and imprisoned,  Mr. Strickland, was fully exonerated.

    The invaluable efforts and expertise of The Midwest Innocence Project, a non-profit organization which reviewed the

facts presented by Mr. Strickland and began networking on his behalf, led to his conviction ultimately being set aside by The Honorable James Welsh, a Missouri judge.  Mr. Strickland was released in 2021 and is safely at home.

    Presently, Mr. Strickland joyfully serves his community as a civil activist and youth mentor, encouraging local youth to stay constructively engaged in their respective communities.

    The Juneteenth Committee of Saint Joseph Missouri is honored to welcome Mr. Strickland to participate in the talent portion of this year's Juneteenth festivities. Beside 3 more very dynamic individuals, Mr. Strickland will be a guest Juneteenth 2026 talent show judge and (immediately thereafter), he will host a speaking session and  brief question/answer time. 

 It is simply amazing that this awe-inspiring gentleman is willing to pause a demanding nation-touring schedule and participate in this city's time-honored Juneteenth festivities. Fun fact: In Kansas City, Missouri, June 7 is "Kevin Strickland Day"!  Happy Juneteenth!