Research & Publications

Asian American and Pacific Islander Kansans have long been a part of the diverse fabric that makes the Midwest. And in recent years, the Kansas AAPI Citizen Voting Age population (CVAP) has only grown, with estimates more than doubling from 20,260 CVAP in 2012-2016 to 57,929 CVAP in 2020-2024.

The 2026 Kansas Legislative Session was consequential in the fight for civil liberties, and the ACLU of Kansas was under the dome for voting rights, criminal legal reform, immigration, free speech, and other fundamental protections. While the session produced a mixed set of outcomes, several key victories reminded us the impact of sustained advocacy and underscored the importance of everyday Kansans showing up.

A politicized State Supreme Court may not sound like an issue on face value, but it is important to understand what is at stake.

Today, we celebrate trans joy, life, and expression that will always exist in Kansas, while also reckoning with the increased politicization, violence, and discrimination that we’ve witnessed come alongside with increased visibility by society.

A trans Kansan was forced to flee their home. Once 26 years ago, and now again with the passage of SB 244.

On March 3rd, the Kansas Senate voted to require school districts to pay a hefty fine if their students walked out during the school day for a protest.

I can leave Kansas, but Kansas will never leave me. That is why I keep coming back. Sure, I describe myself as a lifelong Kansas resident, and I have lived elsewhere for short periods, but I keep coming back and always keep a Kansas address. I keep coming back despite each legislative session seeming more volatile than the last. I keep coming back, even though it is clear our elected officials don't see us as individuals with unique, nuanced experiences. I keep coming back because I love the people of Kansas and feel proud of our state's unique character. I keep coming back because I adore the diversity and vastness of the prairie. I keep coming back because I love the bison roaming on the horizon, the golden wheat fields, the farmers who love the land they toil for generations, the rich blue sky, and the ornateness of the dome inside the Kansas Capitol Building. I keep coming back because Kansas is a special place.

This resource will be further developed as we have more information. If you or a loved one is impacted by Senate Bill 244 becoming a law, contact us by visiting aclu.org/KS_SB244 or by clicking the link in our bio. We want to hear from you.