Advocacy News from LMM
Introducing LMM'S Summer Advocacy Intern,
Morgan Edwards
Exactly four weeks ago, Morgan Edwards joined LMM’s Advocacy Department for a 10-week internship as part of John Carroll University’s Summer in The City Program. Learn more about what Morgan is studying, why she is passionate about justice, and what she hopes to learn from her time at Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry in this blog.
Support Clean Slate Legislation
Earlier this year, Senator Nathan Manning (Huron, Lorain) introduced Senate Bill 288 which aims to reform Ohio’s criminal justice system. The legislation includes automatic expungement and sealing of criminal records in Ohio, gives people who are incarcerated time off their sentences to complete rehabilitation programs, and reduces barriers to employment post-release. If passed, this legislation would make it easier for those with criminal records to move on with their lives after incarceration. Share your support of this clean slate legislation through this tool from Represent Justice or on social media via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
How to Have a Critical Conversation
On June 15th, LMM's Advocacy Department held a lunch and learn with LMM staff centered around the history and celebration of the Juneteenth holiday. Conversations focused on slavery, race and injustice can be difficult discussions to have, so we wanted to share some tips on ways to have, and be a part of, difficult conversations like these:

  • Create a safe space for people to share openly and without judgement 
  • Commit to being empathic and showing compassion 
  • Show up ready with the intent to listen and not respond 

For other tips on how to have critical conversations, click here.
The City Club in the Square
On Tuesday, June 21st several LMM staff partners attended the “Up Next in State Policy Advocacy” City Club program in Public Square. The program featured Hannah Halbert with Policy Matters Ohio, a non-profit research institute focused on creating a more vibrant, equitable, sustainable and inclusive Ohio. Hannah talked about her journey to Executive Director, what lies ahead for state policy, and how the organization’s work has changed as the statehouse grows more divided.

We are grateful for the City Club for its continued engagement on these important issues.
What We're Reading
Summer is here! Add a few of the following articles on race, homelessness and poverty to your reading list on these hot days: