Yesterday in Oakley, Monica Williams—local activist and member of the NAACP—challenged panelists (at a discussion about identifying the values of the Democratic Party) to discuss why so many African Americans in Cincinnati feel disenfranchised by local Democrats.  City Council Candidate Greg Harris was not a panelist, but he has some ideas for how Williams’ concerns can be addressed—so The Cincinnati Beacon is proud to provide them for our readers.

Five Simple Ways Democrats Can Diversify Participation
by Greg Harris

5.  Don’t spend $600 reserving 21st C. Club in Oakley for Democratic Forum events.  Instead, move meetings around, utilize inexpensive or free venues (Bond Hill rec center, union halls, etc.), and send out postcards and automated calls to neighborhoods in close proximity to venue soliciting their attendance and their voices.

4.  A rotating group of Democratic elected officials from various offices (mayors, trustees, judges, etc.) should participate in monthly town hall style meetings in Cincinnati neighborhoods - listening sessions.

3.  Don’t limit neighborhood canvassing to election season.  A rotating group of Democratic elected officials should walk neighborhood business districts on an ongoing basis, with a special focus on communities that have become disengaged from the political process.

2.  Go where people meet. Dem forums don’t always need to be Democratic sponsored events.  Continually engage civic and religious organizations, neighborhood business associations, etc., an offer to have Democratic appointed and elected officials to attend their events to speak or to listen. 

1.  SUPPORT CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM.  Campaigns are getting increasingly expenses, and candidates spend lots of hours soliciting donations from contributors who only represent a narrow segment of Cincinnati society. Modern campaigning requires giving disproportionate voice and time to those with more money. 

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