UNESCO is the United Nations organization that fosters world peace through cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. Within UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is the Creative Cities Network, consisting of 408 locations worldwide, 10 of which are in the U.S.

Kansas City was the first of two American UNESCO-designated music cities, which grants it a seat at the table for international discussions of all things creative and the ability to attract guest musicians who use music as a unifying tool.

Former ambassador to UNESCO David Killion talks to Jacob Wagner, associate professor of Urban Planning + Design at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, about the significance of the organization to the security of the nation, the value of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and the origins of International Day of Jazz.

They also discuss the importance of international recognition of the United States’ cultural heritage, especially jazz music, and Kansas City’s role in the development of jazz diplomacy through advocates like Eddie Baker and Anita Dixon-Brown.

Killion explains that the organization reflects the full spectrum of its membership: democracies, dictatorships, failed states, emerging powers. “We can either be engaged and active in fighting for our values and interests, or we can find a seat on the bench while other players dictate the game,” he says.

President Barack Obama appointed Killion to UNESCO, and Killion served as ambassador from 2009 to 2013. His work led to the establishment of the International Day of Jazz, celebrated not only in Kansas City every year but by millions of people around the world.

This event is co-sponsored by Creative City KC, Inc. and is held in honor of the late Anita Dixon-Brown, Creative City KC executive director and founder of Kansas City’s UNESCO City of Music membership.