Policy Watch Workshop: Educate. Empower. Mobilize.

Civic engagement is not a spectator sport.

On Friday, May 9, community members gathered at Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland for the Policy Watch Workshop, an interactive experience designed to move participants beyond simply learning about policy and into meaningful action.

Hosted through a partnership between Antioch Baptist Church and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW), the workshop centered on a clear mission: educate, empower, and mobilize individuals to better understand how public policy shapes everyday life—and how communities can shape policy in return.

Too often, policy conversations feel distant, overly technical, or reserved for political insiders. This workshop challenged that notion by creating a practical, accessible space where attendees could build real-world civic engagement skills.

Participants explored what it means to actively monitor policy developments, effectively engage elected officials and decision-makers, and organize around issues that directly impact their families, neighborhoods, and futures.

The workshop featured two dynamic guest speakers bringing both advocacy and legislative perspectives to the conversation.

Crystal Bryant-Ayemang, co-founder and advisor of Cleveland Votes, shared insights on civic participation, voter engagement, and the importance of building systems that make democracy more accessible and responsive to community voices. Her work continues to help Cleveland residents understand that participation does not begin and end on Election Day.

Joining her was State Representative Tristan Rader (House District 13), who offered perspective from inside the legislative process, helping attendees better understand how policy decisions are made, where influence exists, and why informed advocacy matters.

Together, the conversation reinforced an essential message: policy is personal.

Whether the issue is education, healthcare, housing, economic opportunity, voting rights, or public safety, policy decisions shape the realities communities experience every day. Understanding those systems is a powerful first step—but action is where transformation happens.

The Policy Watch Workshop reflected a growing commitment to civic literacy, community empowerment, and strategic advocacy—particularly for communities historically left out of policy conversations or disproportionately impacted by policy outcomes.

Because informed communities are stronger communities.

And when people understand how systems work, they are better equipped to demand accountability, organize effectively, and create lasting change.

REGISTER: https://tinyurl.com/7hh3x5hj