RESOLUTION NO. 230048

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Sponsor:  Councilmember Heather Hall

Honoring the heroic life and legacy of one of the mightiest champions for inclusivity, Olivia Paige Bloomfield.

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WHEREAS, Olivia saw her disability as an advantage to spread awareness and inform others in her community and beyond about life with disabilities in pursuit of her mission to make the world an inclusive place for all to experience and enjoy; and

WHEREAS, Olivia was a Variety KC advocate since the age of 4 when she first made her debut as an inclusion advocate taking over the microphone at the Variety KC radiothon, and from then on she never stopped in her pursuit to change hearts and minds of others to recognize the need to make the world a more inclusive place. Wise beyond her years and fearless in the face of adversity, Olivia campaigned for her school to adopt an inclusive playground, and not only did she accomplish that, but her entire school district agreed to modify all playgrounds to be inclusive moving forward; and

WHEREAS, Olivia was a pioneer and lived in a world that was not built for her needs. However, that did not stop her from finding ways to make Kansas City more inclusive for everyone. The new KCI, will feature Universal Changing rooms, dedicated in Olivia’s memory, promoting dignity for all; and

WHEREAS, in her short time here, Olivia accomplished more than most at such a young age. She advocated for inclusive playgrounds, she was the youngest recipient of The Independent’s Rising Star Award, assisted in adding accessibility resources to the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts Center, led the charge on reforming the KC Monarch’s Field to be inclusive, advocated for universal sized changing tables, and so much more; and

WHEREAS, Olivia possessed all the confidence, compassion, and joy of the world, never afraid to stand up for herself or others. She was poised, dignified, and inspirational when speaking in front of the media, a room full of adults, or to City Council. She left behind a legacy that will live on as we carry her message of strength and conviction; and; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby display their respect and honor to the precious life of Olivia Bloomfield and her dedication to ensuring that each person feels loved and appreciated for who they are, and are given the opportunity to soak in the blessings of life, and she did so by making her Kansas City community and the world a more inclusive place; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to Olivia’s little sister, Emily Bloomfield and to her parents, Sara and Matt Bloomfield

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