The committee has navigated from a long history of awareness to engagement. In this crucial time of now, it is imperative that the Orient specifically and all masonic bodies generally dig into the roots of those that came before. Voter engagement is where we have the chance to make the greatest impact today in our shared community, and where you can make your mark for generations to come. We have many standing and ad- hoc committees to address the breadth of issues and opportunities to advance our mission.h3024 During the time since our last submission, the Committee worked to empower voters and ensure access to the democratic process. From hosting forums, canvassing neighborhoods, and other outreach consisting of phone calls, text messages, and public speaking, we engaged communities within the state of Ohio to educate voters on what is at stake. As a nonpartisan organization we are most effective through empowering our communities with factual information in order that they can make decisions based on knowledge versus opinion.
in the political landscape, we must work with what we have, focusing on equity, justice, and opportunity for all! Throughout the Orient of Ohio, we have numerous activities taking shape. We spend a large amount of time formulating partnerships and leading within those organizations to achieve the goals of the committee.
In Cincinnati, the committee developed and retained partnerships with the Cincinnati NAACP, Cincinnati and Greater Cincinnati chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., GCVC, and 47 affiliate partners, Bold New Democracy, Ohio Re-entry Program, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Cincinnati Graduate Chapter, Links Inc.; National Urban League; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.; Cincinnati Public, Cincinnati Reds; CCHMC; HC Office of Re-entry; Cincinnati State; UC, Xavier, 3CDC; and others. Through these partnerships in conjunction with King Solomon Consistory No. 20 we were able to accomplish 1,500 pieces of voter information canvased; 289 registrations; 197 address changes; and 7 new petitions for admission into Prince Hall freemasonry. We also trained volunteers to register voters in jail and hosted forums through 5 separate City Council (78 candidates); 2 schoolboard; and 1 Judicial interaction with more than 15,000 voters in 2 counties. In Toledo, several of our committee members are also committed to working the polls. Active Committees for registration and education are also in Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Youngstown.
Going into this year ’ s cycle with many of our cities electing Mayors, Judges City Council members, and schoolboard members we know firsthand how small efforts can lead to a large impact. However, the election results are a constant reminder to us that advocacy continues long after the votes are counted. Progress requires sustained and consistent effort, collaboration, and a willingness to pivot and adapt to whatever challenges arise. It is time for us to be forward thinkers and resist the temptation to become divided. Just like during the early 60s when we fought to be included in the voting process, now more than ever, unity is critical. We must all, regardless of affiliation or status in the Order share a responsibility to advocate for our communities and push for the change we wish to see. Sitting on the sidelines is being a participation in failure. Regardless of the changes
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