Rep. Brent Honors Legacy of the Honorable Helen Rankin

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) today issued a statement regarding the passing of Helen Rankin, the trailblazing former Ohio State Representative and the First Black woman elected to serve in the Ohio General Assembly.

“Helen Rankin was more than a public servant; she was a pioneer and a visionary whose courage fundamentally reshaped Ohio’s political landscape,” said Rep. Brent. “By becoming the first Black woman to walk these halls as an elected representative, she did not just occupy a seat; she created a path. Every woman of color serving in the Statehouse today, myself included, stands tall on her strong, capable shoulders.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: A photo of Helen Rankin is attached to this release.