A Unified Call for Equity: State of Black Ohio Press Conference & Summit Elevates Black Voices Across the State

Legislators, community leaders, and advocates from across the state will gather on February 25 at the Ohio Statehouse for the State of Black Ohio Press Conference and Legislative Summit. Held in recognition of Black History Month, the day is dedicated to advancing equity, opportunity, and measurable outcomes for Black Ohioans. 

Hosted in partnership with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation and the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, the convening will highlight findings from the State of Black Ohio Pilot Report and align community voice with legislative action. The program will be led by OLCBF President and CEO Shayla L. Davis; OLBC President, State Representative Terrence Upchurch and other Black legislators.  

The day opens at 11:00 a.m. with a joint press conference, followed by a legislative session and roundtable discussion.  

Throughout the day, leaders and stakeholders will address critical issues impacting Black communities across the state, with a focus on actionable policy solutions and measurable outcomes. Priority areas include: 

Economic Stability & Affordability  

Public Safety, Justice & Accountability  

Education & Generational Opportunity  

Housing Stability & Wealth Building  

Healthcare Access & Health Equity

OLBCF emphasizes that the summit is designed to move beyond dialogue and toward coordinated action. By grounding community voice in research and aligning it with legislative priorities, the event seeks to strengthen accountability and drive policies that produce tangible results for Black Ohioans statewide. 

During a time when our priorities are often sidelined and equitable policies feel like an afterthought, this gathering serves as a vital ecosystem for the leaders and advocates carrying the mantle of those who came before us. The State of Black Ohio Press Conference and Legislative Summit is more than a meeting; it is a statewide coordinated effort to ensure the Black voice is never muted. By standing together in a unified approach, we are consolidating our power to protect the progress we’ve made and command the space necessary for the work yet to come. 

Media inquiries? Please contact Director of Communications Jayah Watters-Clark at: communications@olbcfoundation.org