Why does Ohio need a Black Caucus?
Our Purpose
The OLBC was founded in 1967 a time in our countries history when the voices of Black legislators were often ignored and overlooked by other legislator’s even within the same political caucus.
The struggle to have their voices heard when speaking up for underserved communities charged the Black legislators in the Ohio House and Senate to band together to form the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus formerly know as Black Elected Democrats of Ohio (BEDO).
Today the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus is a well respected valued organization consisting of seventeen members between the House and Senate. Currently other caucuses and key stakeholder consult with and seek the support of OLBC before moving forward with polices that may impact the marginalized communities.
The successes of the OLBC have blazed a trail for many of the constituent caucuses we know today.
Get Involved
Contributing to the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) is a direct investment in the advancement of equitable policies and representation for Ohio’s Black communities. By supporting the OLBC, individuals and organizations contribute to a collective voice that advocates for social justice, economic empowerment, and healthcare access for all Ohioans, particularly those who have historically been marginalized or underrepresented. The OLBC plays a crucial role in shaping legislation that addresses systemic inequalities, promotes diversity and inclusion, and fosters a more just and prosperous future for Ohio. Your contribution helps empower the OLBC to continue its vital work of championing equity and justice in Ohio’s legislative process.
Systemic Change
The OLBC is devoted to creating systemic change to level the field for those whom have been disenfranchised by a system that was not designed for equal opportunity.
Education
We advocate for increased funding for early childhood programs, support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and ensuring Ohio’s public schools have the resources needed for success. Through these efforts, the OLBC aims to promote educational equity and provide all Ohioans with the tools to succeed.
Defending Democracy
The OLBC is deeply committed to defending democracy against efforts that seek to undermine or disrupt the democratic process in Ohio and across the United States.
Criminal Justice Reform
The OLBC is committed to supporting policies that reduce the rate of Black imprisonment and recidivism by addressing the root causes of actions that lead members of our communities into correctional facilities, often tied to poverty.
Healthcare Access
The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) is focus on reducing maternal health disparities through better prenatal care and support, addressing high Black infant mortality rates, enhancing women’s healthcare access, and improving care for aging Black seniors.
Voting Rights
The OLBC strongly believes that voting rights are human rights. To protect and defend Ohioans’ rights to vote, the OLBC advocates for policies that ensure equitable access to the ballot box for all citizens.
Our Partners
From The OLBC Media Center
The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Announces 2024 Primary Election
The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Announces 2024 Primary Election COLUMBUS – Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) Executive Director John Meacham issued the following statement (...)
OLBC Applauds the Selection of the New Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, President
OLBC Applauds the Selection of the New Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, President COLUMBUS– Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) President Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) issued (...)
OLBC Mourns the Passing of Former State Senator C.J. Prentiss
OLBC Mourns the Passing of Former State Senator C.J. Prentiss COLUMBUS– Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) President Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) mourns the passing of former State (...)
Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Leadership
Terrence Upchurch
Catherine Ingram
Sedrick Denson
Dontavius Jarrells
Meredith Lawson Rowe
Hearcel Craig
Erika White
John Meacham
Voter Resources
Voter Resources are Available Here!
We are excited to provide you with resources to exercise your right to vote! Use the tabs on the right side of the page to get started.
Voting is a Critical Tool to Impact Change in Our Communities!
Voting is of paramount importance from the Black Caucus perspective as it represents a crucial tool for empowerment and change. Historically, Black communities have faced significant barriers to voting, including voter suppression tactics and discriminatory policies. By exercising their right to vote, members of the Black community can directly impact the political landscape, electing representatives who are committed to advancing racial equity, social justice, and economic opportunity. Every vote strengthens the collective voice of the Black Caucus, enabling them to advocate effectively for policies that address systemic inequalities and uplift marginalized communities. Voting is not just a right but a powerful tool for shaping a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
Felon Voting
Did you know that Ohio is one of the few states in the U.S. that allows convicted felons to vote? All convicted felons have their right to vote automatically restored upon completion of sentence, and must register to vote. Those on probation and/or parole may register.
As long as you are not currently incarcerated, after your sentence is served, you have 30 days before the election to re-register. Unless, the felony involves an election type of conviction, like voter fraud.
Below is the Secretary of state’s voting information for re-entry citizens:
- A person currently serving time in jail or prison for a felony conviction can neither register to vote nor vote. Additionally, a person who has twice been convicted of a violation of Ohio’s elections laws is permanently barred from voting in Ohio.
- An otherwise qualified person convicted of a misdemeanor may vote, and an otherwise qualified person who had been convicted of a felony may register and vote while on probation or parole, or after completing his or her jail or prison sentence.
- The voter registration of a person who is incarcerated on a felony conviction is cancelled; once that person has completed his or her jail or prison sentence, or is on probation, parole or community control, he or she must re-register to vote by the registration deadline before voting.
Now that you know, if you need to re-register to vote click here
Voting for the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus is important because it ensures that the concerns and perspectives of Black Americans and other marginalized communities are represented in the legislative process. By electing OLBC members, voters can help enact policies that promote fairness, equality, and opportunity for all Ohioans. Additionally, supporting the OLBC through voting helps to build a more diverse and inclusive government that better reflects the rich tapestry of Ohio’s population.
