Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Address 136th General Assembly Priorities as Black History Month Concludes
COLUMBUS — Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) President State Rep. Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) and fellow members of the OLBC Wednesday held a news conference addressing the caucus’ legislative priorities for the 136th General Assembly.
All throughout Black History Month, OLBC members have been introducing legislation to not only improve the lives of the people in their communities, but also all the people of Ohio.
“OLBC began February by introducing pieces of legislation that would have a direct impact or highlight issues within the Black community. We have a range of bills that encompass and address health disparities, criminal justice, housing and tax issues, health and safety, education and several other concentrations,” said OLBC President Upchurch. “I am joined here with my colleagues who all stand united in the effort to make Ohio a better place for African Americans to not only live but thrive.”
“It is an honor to stand here today as we commemorate Black History Month—not just as a time of reflection, but as a call to action. Black history is American history. It is a story of resilience, resistance, and remarkable contributions to every facet of this nation. And at its core, Black history has always been about the fight for justice—the fight for access, for opportunity, and for the fundamental right to shape our own destiny,” said OLBC Treasurer Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus).
“The disparities within our Criminal Justice system are undeniable. Black Ohioans are disproportionately impacted by sentencing policies, incarceration rates, and barriers to reentry. These issues are not just statistics; they are real challenges that affect families, communities, and generations,” said Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Franklin).
“Today, during Black History Month, we continue the same fight for justice and equality,” said OLBC Sergeant-At-Arms Senator Hearcel F. Craig (D-Columbus). “The housing crisis affects all Ohioans but affects our communities of color the most. In fact, Black Ohioans are the most likely racial group to be housing insecure. I’ve introduced many bipartisan bills that would address the housing issues facing our state, and I will continue to fight alongside my colleagues to find solutions that will provide meaningful relief to the most vulnerable among us.”
Cleveland NAACP President William Tarter Jr. and A. Philip Randolph Institute State Director Andre Washington were also in attendance.
The OLBC was founded in 1967 a time in our country's history when the voices of Black legislators were often ignored and overlooked by other legislator’s even within the same political caucus.
Today, the OLBC is a well-respected valued organization consisting of seventeen members between the Ohio House and Senate. Currently other caucuses and key stakeholder consult with and seek the support of OLBC before moving forward with policies that may impact the marginalized communities.
A picture of OLBC’s Black History Month press conference is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio Senate Democrats.