The Wichita African American Council of Elders

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The Wichita African American Council of Elders

We act as an advisory board, offering guidance and leadership on issues affecting our community. We are here to be of service!

"Standing on the Shoulders of Our Ancestors; Preparing a Path for our Youth!" Established in 2001, TCOE is a collective made up of concerned elders from the Wichita African American community. About The African American Council of Elders ~ Wichita/Sedgwick County

Founded in 2001, the African American Council of Elders ~ Wichita/Sedgwick County is a collective made up of concerned elders from our

community, who have come together for the express purpose of sharing what we’ve seen and learned to help our community grow stronger. We are here to instruct, and advise, to guide, to assist, and to correct when needed. We are involved with the youth of our community, and the schools, and with other existing organizations wherever and to whatever degree possible. We represent vintage leadership and a community resource – meeting with youth, presiding over community celebrations, mentoring current and future leaders, representing the community with public officials and so much more. We have decades worth of connections throughout the broader community and embody a tremendous network of resources. Collectively, we represent over 1,500 years of experience and knowledge.

05/16/2026

It is with great sadness that we share that our dear Sister, Friend, and Queen Mother, Janet Diggs, has transitioned from this life and has joined the Ancestors. On Mother's Day 2026, at home with her family in Oklahoma, surrounded by their loving embrace, Queen Mother Janet passed from this life to the next. Her life was a testament to her great love for the Divine, her family and friends, and our community.

Further information regarding her memorial celebration will be shared once the arrangements are finalized. We pray for comfort and peace for her family and all who loved her.

May the Ancestors welcome her with open arms and celebration, and may she rest well in their company, in love, peace, and power. A'se!

05/09/2026

Did you are do you reside or spend time near 29th and Grove? Take a moment and review the information found on this link https://clearwaytesting.org/

Get tested by trusted community members at an upcoming location. I did!

05/08/2026

Something powerful is happening tomorrow… and you need to be in the room.

The Wichita Council of Elders invites you to Community Reconnection: An Intentional Conversation—facilitated by Elder Rob Simmon.
This is not just another gathering. This is where we re-engage, realign, and rebuild—together.

If you’ve been connected before—this is your moment to come back.

If you’ve been looking for a place to serve—this is your invitation.

🗓 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Iasis Christian Center
1914 E 11th St, Wichita, KS

☕ Coffee & Connections included

Come ready to:
✔️ Be part of the conversation
✔️ Hear the vision
✔️ Step into meaningful community work

We’re not just talking—we’re building.
👉 Be in the room. Bring someone with you.

04/28/2026

Hello family and friends,
Below is the link to Andrew’s obituary. Feel free to leave a comment on the site.
Andrew Summers Jr. Obituary
https://www.legacy.com/.../name/andrew-summers-obituary...
Several important topics regarding the memorial service on May 2, 2026 from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (Central Time) at Carl Brewer Community Center 1329 E 16th Street Wichita, KS 67214.
In the memorial service there is a segment for public remarks. Realizing Andrew has friends near and far, we are providing an opportunity for those unable to attend to send in a 1 minute video to be played during that segment. Please use a cell phone to capture your 1-minute video, then send by text to 682-207-4473 or by email to [email protected]. All videos must be received by Friday, May 1st 5:00 PM (CST).
It is our intention to have the memorial service streamed live on Zoom. The link and instructions will be posted soon.
For the memorial service (in-person or virtual), it is our request that everyone wear clothing that is black, not as a sign of mourning but as a salute to Andrew. Black was his favorite color to wear. Also, feel free to wear red because it was Andrew’s mother's favorite color. Andrew dearly loved her and fondly credits her for teaching him and his brother, Charles, to sing and harmonize even before they were in elementary school. So wearing black, red or a combination of both are the colors to celebrate Andrew’s life. Please pass on this request.
For any questions about the memorial service or sending tributes, monetary donations, flower delivery, please contact my niece, Prauttus Samuel, at 682-207-4473 or by email at [email protected]

Queen Mother Tasleem Muqtasid

04/04/2026

Hanging with my Sister-Queens, Presiding Elder Michelle Armster, and Vice Presiding Elder/Queen Mother Wakeelah Martinez. Checking out this incredible restaurant in Old Town - Haven. The food was delicious and our waitress, Kandace Burnett, was kinda wonderful, too! ❤️

02/20/2026

Our beloved Scribe Earnest Cox encouraging you to "VOTE EARLY" if you can!!!

is

02/08/2026

We had an amazing meeting today. What a beautiful way to convene with community.

01/28/2026

Photo bump of our last few gatherings.

12/26/2025

🎉 TODAY IS THE DAY! 🎉
Join us today as we come together to celebrate Kwanzaa, honor our Elders, and uplift our community in the spirit of unity, culture, and connection.

Today – Friday, December 26
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
The Center | 1914 E. 11th Street, Wichita, KS

✨ Elder Enstoolment Ceremony
✨ Kwanzaa Celebration & Community Gathering
🥗 Bring your family & bring your toppings!

The Elders are providing the greens — you bring your favorite salad toppings as we share a Kuumba Community Salad together.
This is a family-friendly celebration rooted in culture, joy, and togetherness.

Come learn. Come honor. Come celebrate.

All are welcome.
See you soon!

12/24/2025

Honoring the Voices, Wisdom, and Legacy of Our Elders

Kwanzaa calls us to pause, reflect, and give honor where it is due. On Friday, December 26, our community will do just that as we enstool four Elders whose lives reflect service, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice, unity, and collective growth in Wichita.

Mrs. Sandra Rankin has long stood at the intersection of advocacy and education through her work with the NAACP, lending her leadership to efforts that advance equity, civic engagement, and opportunity. Her voice and presence have helped shape conversations that move our community forward, especially for our children and future generations.

Mr. Rob Simon represents the quiet, steady strength that holds communities together. Known for his consistent involvement and support across Wichita neighborhoods, Mr. Simon leads not for recognition, but out of responsibility. His life reflects the power of showing up, standing firm, and serving with integrity.

Ms. Elaine Guillory is both an advocate and a storyteller for the people. Through her leadership with the NAACP and her work amplifying community concerns through the Community Voice newspaper, she ensures that stories often overlooked are seen, heard, and valued. Her commitment to truth, representation, and community dialogue embodies the spirit of empowerment and collective voice.

Dr. Charles Coleman is a respected leader, mentor, and guide whose influence reaches across faith, service, and community life. His wisdom, counsel, and example have helped shape lives and strengthen institutions, offering a steady reminder that leadership is most powerful when rooted in humility and purpose.

Together, these four individuals reflect the heart of Kwanzaa—unity, purpose, responsibility, creativity, and faith. Their enstoolment is not only an honor bestowed, but a recognition of lives already lived in service to others.

We invite the community to join us in honoring their legacy and celebrating our shared culture.

🗓 Friday, December 26
🕛 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
📍 The Center | 1914 E. 11th Street, Wichita, KS

This is more than a ceremony.
It is a moment of remembrance, respect, and recommitment to one another.

Address

P. O. Box 21203
Wichita, KS
67208

Website

https://aacouncilofelderswichita.wordpress.com/

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