COLUMBUS — At a press conference on Tuesday, members of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) and other Black leaders from across Ohio made a case for voting “YES” on Issue 1, emphasizing that the citizen-led initiative would empower Black voters and end partisan gerrymandering.
The ballot measure would allow citizens, not politicians, to draw fair legislative maps, addressing longstanding concerns about political representation and equity in the state.
OLBC President Upchurch highlighted the importance of the initiative.
“I understand that some of my colleagues in the Senate have come out against Issue 1, and I respect the opinion of my colleagues; however, we are here to set the record straight and debunk the misinformation and myths that Issue 1 would disenfranchise Black voters,” he said.
“Here are the indisputable facts: Issue 1 will keep communities together… empower Black voters and communities… protect and provide a path of expansion for Black representation. The truth is the Issue 1 amendment explicitly states that it will ‘ban partisan gerrymandering and prohibit the use of redistricting plans that favor one political party and disfavor others.’ That’s why I’m voting ‘YES’ on Issue 1.”
Supporters of the measure stress its nonpartisan nature, pointing to the structure of the proposed 15-member commission, which would be made up of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, ensuring fair representation.
Rep. Jarrells emphasized, “This isn’t about politics; it’s not about Republicans versus Democrats. This is about fairness and justice. It’s about making sure every Black child in Ohio grows up in a state where their vote counts, and their future is bright.”
The press conference served to counter statements by State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester), who argued Issue 1 could lead to the loss of representation for Black communities.
Supporters of the measure, however, contend that these arguments misrepresent the amendment’s intent and likely outcomes, noting that it prioritizes compliance with the Voting Rights Act and bans partisan gerrymandering outright.
“Fair maps are fair for everybody,” said Sen. Ingram, who underscored the importance of Issue 1 in securing equitable representation for Ohio’s Black communities.
Sen. Craig added, “Issue 1 would increase political engagement among Black and minority voters, provide opportunities to actively participate in the redistricting process, and ensure that their votes have a meaningful impact.”
Deidra Reese, voting engagement director for the Ohio Organizing Collaborative, applauded the transparency that Issue 1 promises:
“The beauty of Issue 1 is that it gives citizens control of the process. It takes the partisanship out of it… We want a process where the people have the ability to influence those decisions. We want to make sure that we have lines that are constitutional. Issue 1 will give us that.”
More than 60 Black faith leaders across Ohio have endorsed the initiative, which is supported by major civil rights groups, including the NAACP and Ohio Unity Coalition.
Advocates hope Ohioans will vote “YES” on Issue 1, enabling a fairer and more representative future for all communities across the state.
