Michael Cheers, Carol Friedman and Jason Miccolo Johnson will be the recipients of the “Gordon Parks Choice of
Weapons Award” at the annual celebration October 2nd – 4th, 2025 in Fort Scott, Kansas. The celebration is in honor
of Fort Scott native Gordon Parks, noted photographer, writer, musician, and filmmaker. The Choice of Weapons Award
was established in Parks’ honor to be given annually at the celebration. More detailed information about the annual
celebration events will be coming at a later date with a full press release.
D. Michael Cheers is an Associate Professor. He teaches visual journalism in the School of Journalism
and Mass Communications at San Jose State University. An award-winning documentary filmmaker,
Cheers also teaches master photo classes in Ghana and South Africa. A National Geographic Faculty
Fellow and a Fulbright Scholar, his research interests include examining the slave dungeons along
Cape Coast, Ghana, digitizing the W. E. B. Du Bois photo and documents collection at the Du Bois
Institute for Pan African Culture in Accra, Ghana, and researching township music in Alexandra
Township, in South Africa.
He’s the co-editor and contributing photographer to the bestselling books, Songs of My People: African Americans,
A Self-Portrait and co-authored the bestseller Still Grazing: The Musical Journey of Hugh Masekela. He holds BA and MA
degrees in journalism and an MS in African American Studies from Boston University. Cheers earned his PhD in African
Studies and Research from Howard University, in Washington, D.C. His photographs have been exhibited in museums
and galleries worldwide. In 2023, a portfolio of his photographs was acquired by the Smithsonian Museum of African
American History and Culture.
Cheers began his career photographing high school sports for the St. Louis American newspaper. He then interned at
the Boston Globe newspaper, before joining Jet and Ebony magazines as a photojournalist in Chicago, Washington, D.C,
and later as managing editor of Ebony South Africa. He curated the Songs of My People traveling exhibition throughout
the United States and abroad, before transitioning to photojournalism education in 2001. He’s taught at Auburn
University and the University of Mississippi. He’s headed the photojournalism sequence at San Jose State University since
2006. Cheers most recently produced and directed the documentary I Needed Paris, Inspired by Gordon Parks.
Carol Friedman is a New York portrait photographer and filmmaker who has documented icons
of the art, music and business worlds for more than three decades. Her photographs have been
featured in The New Yorker, Esquire, The New York Times, Gentleman’s Quarterly, Rolling Stone,
Forbes, and The London Times, and appear on numerous book covers including the memoirs and
biographies of Jessye Norman, Ron Carter, Albert Murray, Randy Weston, Al Green, and Gil Evans.
She is the author of The Jazz Pictures, A Moment’s Notice: Portraits of American Jazz Musicians,
and the children’s book Nicky The Jazz Cat.
Renowned for her work in the music industry, Friedman’s classic portraits of singers and musicians appear on hundreds
of jazz, soul, blues, and classical album and CD covers for legendary artists from Nina Simone and Quincy Jones to
Yo-Yo Ma and Eric B. and Rakim. In addition to her camera work, Friedman helmed the art and design divisions of several
major record labels; serving as chief photographer and art director for Blue Note Records, creative director for Elektra
Entertainment, and vice-president of creative for Motown.
An avowed jazz fan, Friedman’s ongoing photography sessions with jazz legends and the innovators on the new jazz
frontier bring her the most pleasure. She began photographing the jazz masters as a student, inspired by the music
and her studies with Life Magazine photographer Philippe Halsman, embracing Halsman’s maxim that “a portrait is
successful only if it reveals the emotional identity of your subject.” The ever-evolving music community and Halsman’s
imperative continues to inform and inspire her work. Friedman is presently photographing and designing album covers,
working on several book projects, and editing The Music Is The Magic, her feature-length documentary film on the life
and work of singer Abbey Lincoln.
Jason Miccolo Johnson What do Thurgood Marshall, Oprah Winfrey, Nelson Mandela, Muhammad Ali,
Iman, seven U.S. presidents, and 15 heads of state have in common? They all have been photographed
by Jason Miccolo Johnson. His images have been in five Smithsonian exhibitions, 45 books, four films,
a music video, and over 70 magazines. In 2006, Johnson published his first solo book, Soul Sanctuary:
Images of the African American Worship Experience (foreword by Gordon Parks). Fifty of those
photographs are now in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African
American History and Culture in Washington, DC.
Historic events shot by Johnson include the inauguration of President Obama, Million Man March, Clarence Thomas’s
Supreme Court confirmation hearing, and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. He has photographed nearly
every elected Black governor and all but one elected Black U.S. Senator. Johnson was the official photographer for the 50th
anniversary of N.A.T.O. and the 50th anniversaries of SNCC and UNCF.
From 2015-2022, Johnson taught photography at Savannah State University. He took 15 students to cover the opening of the
National Museum of African American History and Culture. In 2002, he organized the largest gathering of professional Black
photographers in history (90) to celebrate Gordon Parks on his 90th birthday. In 1997, he planned and organized the 40th
anniversary of his alma mater, Carver High School in Memphis, Tennessee, the biggest event in the school’s history.
He began his professional photography career in the U.S. Navy before becoming the photo lab director at USA Today where
he designed darkrooms and printed pictures at major sporting events including the 1988 Winter and Summer Olympics,
1987 World Series, 1986 Super Bowl, and 1987 and ‘88 NCAA Men’s Final Four. Johnson interned at ABC Network News,
worked at The Shaw Group advertising agency in Memphis, and shot assignments for Essence, Black Enterprise, Financial
World, Glamour, American Visions, Washingtonian, Ebony, and Jet magazines. Johnson is a recipient of the ArtMaker Award
from the HistoryMakers, and Distinguished Alumni Award from Howard University. Since 1990, he has been the official
photographer for the National Association of Black Journalists. Johnson has had solo exhibitions at the National Civil Rights
Museum, Chrysler Museum, and African American Museums in Philadelphia and Detroit.
Photo Credit in Films and Documentaries: Guest Who [Columbia Pictures]; The Black Godfather:The Clarence Avant Story
[Netflix]; Boss: The Black Experience in Business [WNET]; and W.E.B. DuBois: A Biography in Four Voices [The Scribe]. Johnson
currently lives in Savannah, Georgia while working on his third solo book, LEGENDS of our LIFETIME: 75 Black Men Who
Influenced America. For more information, visit jasonmiccolojohnson.com.
Schedule and ticket information will be posted at a later date on the website gordonparkscenter.org.
Category Archives: Gordon Parks Museum
Black History Month Lunch and Learn Today: The Kansas City Monarchs
“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” Rescheduled to Feb. 14
Presentation Explores the History of Baseball in Kansas
Rescheduled Due to Forecasted Weather
Fort Scott, Kan. With the potential winter storm that is forecasted for this Wednesday, Feb 12, the Gordon Parks Museum hosted event “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime,” a presentation and discussion by Phil Dixon is rescheduled to Friday, February 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.
This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with desserts provided by Great West Dining. Drinks and chips will also be provided. Fort Scott T-Mobile will also have a table set up for free raffle drawing for a chance for the attendees to win T-Mobile prizes.
“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas City Monarchs” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.
2020 marked two major milestones for baseball: the Negro Leagues celebrated their 100th anniversary and Major League Baseball merged statistics of these African American players with those of the major league. The history of Negro League baseball in America mirrors the racial strife experienced by African Americans in society. It was plagued by discrimination, racism, and inequity, while its athletes were celebrated for their resiliency, professionalism, and athleticism. The Kansas City Monarchs barnstormed across Kansas and the region to play more than 400 games between 1920 and 1957 against local towns. This talk sheds new light on this sports history and the history of baseball in Kansas.
Phil S. Dixon a co-founder of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. He is the author of nine books about baseball, including biographies about Wilber “Bullet” Rogan and John “Buck” O’Neil. In the course of his research, he has interviewed over 500 former Negro League players and family members.
“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.
For more information about “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org.
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
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Celebrating Black History Month In February
The Gordon Parks Museum
At Fort Scott Community College
Celebrating Black History Month
Come in and view the Black History Month Tribute Panel Exhibit. This consist of over 100 different posters, photos and information of some of the great and important Black Innovators and Leaders throughout history. The exhibit also features some inspiring and moving quotes. Located in the Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center on the campus of Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton.
February 1- 28, 2025
On display each day, will be a Black History Month “Quote of the Day”.
This will have inspiring and moving quotes by different people.
The “Quote of the Day” provides a great opportunity for any faculty, staff and coaches to help promote educational activities throughout the month to keep black history and diversity at the forefront along with encouraging your students to keep learning more!
This would be a great way to open a creative discussion and to highlight a different person every day or week with your class or team and ask questions about the meaning and relevance of each quote or fact and how it might relate to our lives the lives others and what is happening in the world today.
Black History Month Celebration Lunch and Learn Feb. 12
Gordon Parks Museum’s upcoming community events to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.
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“I Have A Dream” Lunch & Learn Tribute Reading Event 12-1pm Free Event at Gordon Parks Museum Today
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Martin Luther King Jr. Events Are Announced
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The Power of Imagery and Civil Rights Experience: Jan. 20 at The Gordon Parks Museum
Presentation Explores the Power of Photography During the Civil Rights Movement
Fort Scott, KS – The Gordon Parks Museum in Fort Scott, KS will host “The Power of Imagery and Civil Rights Experience,” a presentation and discussion by Ann Dean on Monday, Jan 20, 2025 at 12:00p.m. at the Danny & Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.
This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with lunch provided by Dunk’s BBQ and drinks and desserts provided by Great West Dining. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this celebration event” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.
Since its inception, photography has been used for raising awareness of social issues, provoking emotions, and thoughts, and reshaping our perceptions of the world. This presentation will delve into the impact of photography on the civil rights movement in the aftermath of the and mark Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of Education, tracing the evolution of how Black individuals and communities have been portrayed from historical beginnings to the era of Brown v. Board and up to the present day.
Ann Dean is an artist and freelance photographer and artist who teaches photography classes at the Lawrence Art Center.
“The Power of Imagery and Civil Rights Experience” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
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Gordon Parks Museum Featured in 2025 KS Travel Guide
Kansas Tourism Unveils its 2025
Kansas Travel Guide
TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced the release of the highly anticipated 2025 Kansas Travel Guide, a comprehensive and free resource designed to inspire exploration of the Sunflower State. The guide is available in both print and digital format, just in time for planning your 2025 Kansas adventures.
The Kansas Travel Guide highlights the state’s remarkable attractions, vibrant culture, rich history, unique lodging and breathtaking landscapes and scenery. Sections about each of Kansas’ six distinct travel regions highlight the unique personality and experiences that make each area special.
Inside the guide, readers and travelers also will find:
- Must-see attractions that include a collection of museums, scenic byways and hidden gems that make Kansas unforgettable
- Pre-planned day trip itineraries, perfect for the busy traveler who enjoys hitting the road without the stress of planning
- Insider tips for local favorites, dining recommendations and lodging options to enrich every visit
- Special features including a collection of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and exploring Kansas’ 28 state parks.
“The travel guide reflects the heart and soul of Kansas, a place where history, adventure and community come together,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We invite everyone to explore our state and discover the warmth and beauty that makes Kansas a must-visit destination.”
To order your free copy of the 2025 Kansas Travel Guide, click here or call the Kansas Tourism office at (785) 296-2009.
About Kansas Tourism:
The mission of Kansas Tourism is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education and support.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce:
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
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Gordon Parks Museum celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration events will be held in Fort Scott.
All of the events will take place at Ellis Fine Arts Center and are open and free for the entire community to attend.
The events will start on Wednesday, January 15th at the Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center with a free (Lunch and Learn) event that will be held at 12:00p.m., featuring Fort Scott Community College Students and Pittsburg State University Students for a Tribute Reading of the speech “I have a Dream” and quotes by Dr. King.
Soup, dessert, birthday cake and drinks will also be provided by Great Western Dining Services.
The celebration will wrap up on Monday, January 20th, with a film showing Martin, (Lunch and Learn) event and Canned and Non-perishable Food Drive.
Food items will be collected at the museum from 9:00am – till 2:00p.m. The film Martin, a ballet film in tribute of Martin Luther King, directed by Gordon Parks will be shown at 10:30a.m.
The (Lunch and Learn) Speaker Presentation Event “The Power of Imagery and Civil Rights Experience” by Ann Dean will be held at 12:00p.m. – till 1:00p.m. Lunch will be provided by Dunk’s BBQ. Drinks and desserts will be provided by Great Western Dining Services.
A full list of film showings and events can be found at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events. For more information call the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850.
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit spearheading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
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Gordon Parks Birthday Celebration is Now Dec. 5

Nov. 26, 2024 – The Gordon Parks Museum at Fort Scott Community College will celebrate the anniversary of Gordon Parks’ birthday on Thursday, December 5th with the showing of films throughout the day and a speaking presentation and performance by Lem Sheppard, internationally known musician and historian titled “The Music Around Gordon Parks”. The events are free of charge and the public is invited to attend. Parks, born in Fort Scott on November 30, 1912, would have been 112 this year. He died in March 7, 2006 at the age of 93.
The schedule throughout the day will include:
9:25 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. — “Showing of the film Criterion Collection The Learning Tree” in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center FREE.
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn) “The Music Around Gordon Parks” Join us as Lem Sheppard, internationally known musician and historian will be presenting a program of Jazz, blues, and Spirituals. Gordon Parks was born and grew up during the period that was referred to as the Harlem Renaissance and he will perform music that Gordon would have experienced as a child in Fort Scott, as well as in; St. Paul, Chicago and New York City. Birthday cake and drinks will be provided in the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — “Showing of the film Solomon Northup’s Odyssey” in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.
Throughout the day, visitors will be able to receive a 25% birthday discount on all apparel items.
For more information contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620- 223-2700, ext. 5850 or by email at gordonparkscenter@fortscott.edu
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