In May of 2020, Justice Horn lost his reelection bid for UMKC Student Government Association president by one vote.
“I think everything happens for a reason,” Horn said, reflecting on the loss.
Horn, who later graduated in 2021, is now an activist and a candidate for first district legislator in Jackson County. If he wins the election, Horn would be the first openly gay person of color to serve as a county official in Missouri.
His political career, though relatively new, already displays his investment in the community. In September 2020, Horn worked with local civil rights organizations to create Black Lives Matter street murals. More recently, he helped write a city proclamation to recognize May as AAPI History Month in Kansas City.
In spite of these accomplishments, Horn mentioned that his greatest barrier to public service is his age.
“No matter if you’re a Democrat or Republican, there is just this misconception that young people don’t know what the hell they’re talking about,” Horn said.
Although Horn is now an active voice and leader in the Jackson County community, he did not always want to be in the spotlight. His experience being an NCAA wrestler changed his mentality.
Horn’s main priorities include equity, accountability, community policy and policy plans. He said he believes that the input of the community is crucial.
“There’s a lot of things that go on without community,” Horn said. “There’s a lot of backroom deals, there’s a lot of mismanagement of funds from everyone.”
Horn’s time at UMKC was just one example of his involvement in the Kansas City community.
“[Kansas City] is my home, and I know many of you feel that same connection to our city that I do,” Horn said in an open letter on his website. “I’m running for office because my goal is for every single Kansas Citian to feel that their perspective is represented and advocated for.”
