Ohio Legislative Black Caucus

Like two rivers flowing in different directions yet feeding the same ocean, disagreement can sometimes lead to alignment. Throughout history, progress has often emerged not from perfect agreement, but from competing visions pushing a people toward a common goal. Few examples demonstrate this better than the debate between Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois.
Following Reconstruction, both men sought freedom, opportunity, and advancement for Black Americans, but they disagreed on how to achieve it. Booker T. Washington believed that economic independence, vocational education, and entrepreneurship would create a foundation for long-term progress. He encouraged Black Americans to build businesses, acquire skills, and demonstrate economic value in a society determined to exclude them.
W.E.B. Du Bois argued that economic advancement alone was not enough. He believed Black Americans should immediately demand civil rights, political representation, higher education, and equal protection under the law. Through organizations like the Niagara Movement and later the NAACP, Du Bois helped establish a framework for the legal and political activism that would define much of the Civil Rights Movement.
Though often presented as opposites, both men contributed essential pieces to the struggle for freedom. Washington emphasized economic power. Du Bois emphasized political power. Together, their ideas helped shape the future of Black America and laid groundwork for the generations that followed.

From slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, the Black Church has been a powerful force for hope, justice, and change in our communities.

Harriet Tubman was more than a conductor on the Underground Railroad—she was a freedom fighter, leader, and symbol of courage. After escaping slavery herself, she risked her life countless times to help others gain their freedom and later served her country during the Civil War. Her legacy reminds us that one person’s bravery can help change the course of history. ✊🏾🖤

We are a little over a week away from our 5th Annual OLBC Juneteenth Golf Outing! ⛳️ A major shoutout to Green Thumb Industries for their support as our event Co-Sponsor! ✊🏾

We can’t wait to see you on the course for a great day full of celebration, competition, and Black Excellence!

There are a few spots left! Email [email protected] for more details.

Freedom is for everybody.

All June, the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) commentates Juneteenth and recognizes Pride Month while reflecting on the continuous pursuit of liberty, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.

As we celebrate Freedom Month, we are reminded that freedom delayed is freedom denied. Pride month reminds us that the promise of freedom is strongest when every person can live authentically and without fear.

✊🏾🏳️‍🌈

Freedom is for everybody.

All June, the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) commentates Juneteenth and recognizes Pride Month while reflecting on the continuous pursuit of liberty, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.

As we celebrate Freedom Month, we are reminded that freedom delayed is freedom denied. Pride month reminds us that the promise of freedom is strongest when every person can live authentically and without fear.

✊🏾🏳️‍🌈

OLBC Condemns Tennessee GOP Power Grab

The Tennessee GOP’s decision to strip every Black member and Democrat of committee assignments is a blatant abuse of power and an attack on representative democracy.

As members of the oldest Black caucus in the nation, The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) stand in solidarity with our Black colleagues in Tennessee and reject efforts to sideline their voices.

Primary Election Day is tomorrow, and your vote is a God given right and a hard fought freedom that generations fought to secure. 🗳️ The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus urges every eligible voter to honor that legacy by showing up and making your voice heard.

At a time when protections in the Voting Rights Act continue to be weakened, we cannot afford silence, apathy, or disengagement. Our communities cannot be ignored, pushed aside, or silenced when we stand together and vote.

Make a plan. Bring your family. Bring a friend. Go vote.

Five years strong and this one is special. ⛳ Join us for the 5th Annual OLBC Juneteenth Golf Outing as we celebrate a milestone year and President Terrence Upchurch’s final golf outing as President of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus. This is more than a golf event—it’s a morning of community, fellowship, and celebration you do not want to miss.

You do not have to golf to join us. Come out, connect, and be part of an unforgettable morning with leaders and supporters from across Ohio.

Sponsorship Opportunities:
⛳ Hole Sponsor – $3,500
⛳ Tee Sponsor – $2,500
⛳ Foursome – $1,500
⛳ Individual Golfer – $300
⛳ Non-Golfing Attendee – $125

Early registration is strongly encouraged because teams go fast every year. Secure your spot now and help us make our 5th annual outing the biggest one yet.

Contact: [email protected] with any registration needs or questions!