Featured Story
Syphilis rates climbed by over 2,000% in Sedgwick County in the last decade
We look at what’s fueled the trend and how you can protect yourself.
Help shine a light in Wichita
The Wichita Beacon listens to diverse perspectives and investigates systemic issues — and potential solutions — through original, fact-based reporting. As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on donations. You can help keep our journalism free for all readers by becoming a monthly member.
Elections
Wichita’s first school board election under new system draws more voters
Some critics feared Wichita’s new system of electing school board members could harm voter turnout, but the numbers were up.
Wichita police group backs Wu over Whipple, blames mayor for officer shortage. What do the numbers say?
The Fraternal Order of Police and challenger Lily Wu say Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple has contributed to the shortage of police officers in Wichita. Whipple says his record shows he supports the police.
Candidates for Wichita City Council answer your questions ahead of general election
Wichita City Council Candidates for Districts 2, 4 and 5 talk police, housing and water as mail-in ballots start to be sent out.
State Government
Featured Story
Kansas judge blocks 24-hour waiting period for women seeking abortions
The temporary ruling also puts state-mandated counseling and a new abortion pill ‘reversal’ law on hold.
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Local Government
What should voters know about the Wichita 2023 primaries?
Q&A with Laura Rainwater, Sedgwick County’s newest election commissioner. She discusses what voters should know before the Aug. 1 city primaries for mayor, City Council and school board.
Here are Wichita’s USD 259 school board, mayor and City Council candidates for the 2023 election
There will be primary elections for USD 259’s at-large seat, mayor and City Council candidates due to a large number of filers.
Surprised? Wichita Animal Shelter now meets ‘no kill’ rates for euthanasia
In 10 years, the local animal shelter has used a new strategy to dramatically reduce its rate of euthanasia. Its reputation has not kept pace with reality.
DIY Democracy
Not old enough to vote? Here are seven civic engagement opportunities for teens
Andrew Le, a recent Wichita Southeast High graduate, found many ways to get involved in Wichita’s community while a teen. Now he plans a degree in political science and a career in public service.
DIY Democracy: How to follow the Kansas Legislature
From committee hearings to floor debate, The Beacon shows you how to follow along from home.
Know your rights: How to protest in Wichita
What you can do depends on where you protest. Learn about local ordinances, the cost of permits and more. Here is a quick guide.
About Us
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The Wichita Beacon is the city’s first nonprofit, community-supported digital news organization. And we’re partnering with you – our neighbors – to make it happen.
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Wichita Beacon News
Kansas uses the power of the pocketbook to prevent divestment in Israel
Kansas is one of 37 states with laws preventing large state contracts with companies that boycott, divest from or sanction Israel.
Wichita USD 259 school board candidates talk book bans, LGBTQ safety and teacher shortages
Mail-in voting and advance in-person voting start this month. The Wichita Beacon asked the USD 259 school board candidates your questions ahead of Election Day.
Wichita mayor candidates talk property taxes, water and safety ahead of Nov. 7 election
Mail-in ballots and advance in-person voting starts this month. The Wichita Beacon asked the mayoral candidates your questions ahead of Election Day.
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