OLBCF Responds to Governor DeWine’s Deployment of Ohio National Guard to D.C.

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (OLBCF) condemns Governor DeWine’s recent decision to deploy members of the Ohio National Guard to Washington, D.C.

Ohioans deserve to know that our Guard members are being sent into situations where their safety, rights, and mission are clearly defined. Too often, the National Guard has been deployed in ways that escalate tensions rather than protect communities, particularly communities of color.

We wish Governor DeWine showed this same sense of urgency when it comes to ensuring that Ohio’s most vulnerable communities have the resources they need to thrive. From rising unemployment among Black women to persistent housing insecurity and healthcare disparities, our communities continue to wait for swift and decisive action that matches the urgency shown in moments like these.

We urge Governor DeWine to put the wellbeing of Ohio families first. Sending resources out of state raises serious questions about whether taxpayer dollars are being used wisely, especially when urgent needs remain unmet here at home.

Ohioans deserve better. We call on our leaders to put Ohio communities first and ensure the National Guard is deployed in ways that bring people together rather than drive us further apart.