Rep. Mohamed Recognizes Black History Month, Highlights Legislative Priorities Fighting for Ohio's Black Communities

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Ismail Mohamed (D-Columbus) today joined the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) and House Democrats in a press conference celebrating Black History Month and the contributions Black Ohioans have made to our state. 

“As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to focus not only on the historical contributions and experiences of Black Ohioans, but also on what we can continue to do to lift our community up,” said Rep. Mohamed. “I remain committed to restorative justice for communities of color and immigrants across Ohio by addressing inequities that have become institutionalized in our state. Across the board, we must continue to encourage the voices and listen to the experiences of the Black community and simultaneously address the joys and concerns of what it means to be Black in Ohio and in America.”

At the news conference Wednesday, members of the House Democratic Caucus detailed their legislative initiatives addressing systemic inequalities across healthcare, criminal justice, and social equity including:

Capital budget appropriations (Reps. Upchurch, Cutrona)
The Suicide Self-Defense Act (Sen. Craig)
Safe and secure gun storage (Sens. Sykes and Craig)
Increase transparency with the inmate and the public during the process through parole board hearings (Reps. Humphrey, Stewart)
Creation of a certificate of qualification for housing to support returning citizens in finding housing (Reps. Humphrey, Seitz)
Mandating incarcerated women access to unlimited menstrual products (Rep. Humphrey)
Reimbursements for Doulas through Medicaid (Sens. Hicks-Hudson and Reynolds)
Anti-school lunch shaming (Reps. Mohamed and Brewer)
Expungement for minor marijuana offenses (Rep. Mohamed) 

House Democrats are committed to creating a state that works for and supports all Ohioans, regardless of race, gender, income, and zip code.