Empowering the Next Generation Into Advocacy: Ohio Legislative Day 2024 (May 22, 2024)

On May 22, 2024, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW) Central Ohio and Greater Cleveland Chapters came together for the annual Ohio Legislative Day at the Columbus City Hall Council Chambers. Themed “Empowering the Next Generation into Advocacy,” this year’s event spotlighted the importance of preparing future leaders to engage in the legislative process and influence policy decisions that impact Black women and girls across Ohio. Organized by the Public Policy Committees of both chapters, the event brought members, community advocates, and mentees from the Through Her Eyes Mentorship Program to the Statehouse for a full day of civic engagement and leadership development.

Turning Education Into Action

Participants spent the day meeting with state legislators to discuss issues surrounding health equity, education, and economic empowerment — key pillars of NCBW’s mission. The experience provided an invaluable opportunity for mentees to witness how policy decisions are made and how advocacy can be transformed into measurable change.

A Milestone for Mentorship

For the first time, Through Her Eyes mentees joined the delegation, marking a powerful moment of intergenerational learning. Guided by mentors and public policy leaders, the young women saw firsthand the importance of civic participation, leadership, and the responsibility of using one’s voice for progress.

Leadership and Collaboration

Under the leadership of Chapter President Dionne E. Jones and Public Policy Chair DaLisa Delk-Cann, the Greater Cleveland Chapter played an integral role in planning and executing this statewide initiative. The collaboration across Ohio chapters demonstrated the collective power of advocacy — uniting women to drive systemic change through education, mentorship, and representation.

Planting Seeds for the Future

As the chapters continue to advocate for equity and opportunity, Legislative Day served as both a call to action and a learning experience. Empowering the next generation into advocacy is more than a theme — it’s a commitment to ensuring that today’s mentees become tomorrow’s change agents.

“Advocacy isn’t just for seasoned activists — it’s a path that young changemakers can tread.”

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Greater Cleveland Chapter remains committed to uplifting voices, influencing policy, and equipping young women to lead with purpose, passion, and power.