OLBCF Monthly Newsletter: The People's Brief

EMPOWERING BLACK OHIO. DRIVING EQUITABLE CHANGE.

Black Ohio, we need to hear from you!

The State of Black Ohio Advocacy Survey is how we turn your lived experience into policy that moves. When lawmakers ask “what do Black Ohioans need?” We answer with your data, your voice, your priorities.

Five minutes of your time. A living policy agenda on every desk at the Statehouse.

Take the survey. Share it with three people. That’s how we build power.

Complete the Survey

OLBCF Welcomes New Board Member Alan Bannister

OLBCF is thrilled to welcome Alan Bannister to our Board of Directors. Bannister brings a dynamic mix of passion, leadership, and a deep commitment to amplifying voices in the Black community across Ohio.

With nearly 25 years of experience in Ohio government and politics, Bannister has built strong relationships with local, state, and national leaders across the state. He previously served in leadership roles for five Toledo mayors, advancing civic engagement, small business development, and diversity initiatives. Bannister also served as Northwest Ohio Regional Director in Governor Ted Strickland’s administration and has supported presidential and gubernatorial campaigns across Ohio.

He currently brings his expertise in public affairs and strategic engagement through his work with Remington Road Group. His experience and statewide relationships will help strengthen OLBCF’s mission to advance equitable policy and opportunity for Black communities across Ohio.

We are excited to announce The State of Black Ohio Policy In Action Guide, a comprehensive look at legislative activity moving through the 136th Ohio General Assembly, with a focus on policies that are being advanced by Black lawmakers serving communities across the state. To be released in May, stay tuned!

Early voting is now underway across Ohio, giving voters the opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. The state’s primary election will take place on May 5th, and voters are encouraged to make a plan to participate. Visit voteohio.gov to find your early voting location and view your sample ballot.

Review Black Papers

OLBCF Supports Effort to Elevate Fathers' Voices in Family Health

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation is proud to support Black Child Development Institute, Ohio in elevating the voices of fathers and male caregivers in conversations around maternal and infant health.

Fathers play a vital role in supporting their families, yet their perspectives are often overlooked due to systemic barriers and lack of inclusion. Through statewide listening efforts, BCDI-Ohio has shown that when dads are heard and supported, families and communities are stronger.

OLBCF encourages dads, father figures, and caregivers across Ohio to take part in BCDI-Ohio’s survey. It only takes a few minutes to complete, but the impact will be lasting, helping shape policies and programs that better reflect the needs of families.

If you are a dad or caregiver, take the survey today. Your voice matters and can help drive meaningful change.

Take the Dad & Caregiver Survey

President Davis joins LINKS and Cleveland Non-Profit Motivated & Empowered for Girls Conference

Last week, President Davis joined The Links Incorporated for Activating Links Voices: The Power of Legislative Advocacy - Links Day at the State Capitol. During this virtual event she spoke about the priorities of OLBCF and the importance of advocacy around legislative priorities that impact our communities.

On Sunday, President Davis served as the keynote speaker for Motivated & Empowered's 5th Annual Empower Conference. The conference was designed to ignite the passion and fuel the ambition of young girls and teens. President Davis spoke candidly about her lived experiences and encouraged the young attendees to dream big, reach back and remember that the girl who "can" becomes the woman who "WILL!"

Rest in POWER to our former Ohio State Representatives

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences as we honor the lives and legacies of former Ohio State Representatives Bill Patmon, who represented Cleveland and L. Helen Rankin, who represented Cincinnati.

Both leaders dedicated their careers to advancing equity, justice, and opportunity for communities across Ohio, leaving an indelible mark on our state’s legislative history.

Their commitment to public service and advocacy for underserved communities will not be forgotten. We join their families, friends, and colleagues in mourning their passing and celebrating lives well lived.

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