Rep. Jarrells, Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Hold Juneteenth Press Conference on the Next Chapter of Freedom

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) alongside fellow members of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) today held a press conference recognizing Juneteenth and reflect on the continuing pursuit of freedom, justice, and equality for Black Ohioans.

“‘The Next Chapter of Freedom’ means understanding that freedom is never finished by one law, one court decision, one election, or one generation. Freedom must be protected. Freedom must be practiced. Freedom must be expanded. And freedom must reach the people who need it most,” said OLBC Treasurer Rep. Jarrells.

Rep. Jarrells and OLBC members highlighted a key piece of legislation that directly confronts institutional injustice and pushes Ohio toward liberation and equity. That legislation includes:

• House Joint Resolution (HJR) 5 - The End Slavery in Ohio Act (Jarrells, Sims): Removes the language “except as punishment for a crime” from Ohio’s Constitution, ensuring that no form of slavery is permissible under state law and affirming Ohio’s full commitment to human dignity. HJR 5 was introduced in the House on June 23, 2025, and referred to the House General Government Committee.

Rep. Jarrells also emphasized the stark contrast between the urgency shown in advancing voting restrictions and the lack of movement on legislation addressing issues that directly impact Black Ohioans and working families.

“Meanwhile, Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 10, which would require voters to provide photo identification while voting in person, moved through the legislature and will appear on the November ballot, while HJR 5 has yet to receive a hearing,” said OLBC Treasurer Rep. Jarrells. “The speed at which SJR 10 advanced while legislation aimed at expanding dignity and justice remains stalled is troubling. It reflects a misplaced set of priorities at a time when Ohioans are demanding action on the issues that affect their daily lives.”

As OLBC commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black people across the United States, members stressed that the work of achieving true freedom and equality remains unfinished. The continuing effects of economic inequality, barriers to opportunity, and systemic disparities underscore the need for meaningful policy solutions that expand access and opportunity for all Ohioans.

“That is the one lesson of Juneteenth,” said OLBC President Rep. Terrance Upchurch (D-Cleveland). “A promise delayed still leaves people in bondage. A truth withheld still does damage. And a right written on paper means little if people cannot reach it in real life.”

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus remains committed to advancing policies that promote equity, protect civil rights, expand economic opportunity, and ensure that every Ohioan can fully participate in our democracy. As Juneteenth reminds us, freedom is not merely a historical achievement, it is an ongoing responsibility that requires vigilance, action, and a continued commitment to justice.