Social Equity Archives

Black LGBTQ+ women aren’t safe in Cleveland, but they’re finding ways to thrive

By Elizabeth Randolph-Montgomery & The Buckeye Flame ● Social Equity ● August 6, 2026

In 2020, an analysis by Bloomberg CityLab ranked Cleveland as the worst city for Black women to live. For Black LGBTQ+ women, the struggles are real.

Latest in Social Equity

The Return of the AAHCC: A tribute to one of the Land’s own

By Ariane Sroubek ● Arts & Culture ● August 4, 2026

“I want all Cleveland hip-hop artists to know…as I look at the people who come after me, I am so proud that the legacy of Cleveland hip-hop continued.”

From Leo’s Casino’s legacy to Leo’s Arts & Music Collaboratory: Preserving history, building community

By Octavia S. Hicks ● Arts & Culture ● July 31, 2026

Leo’s Arts & Music Collaboratory is preserving Cleveland’s musical history while creating opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs and residents of all ages to learn, create and connect.

Survivor of human trafficking in Elyria now a fierce advocate for other survivors: Part 2

By Christopher Johnston ● Public Safety ● July 30, 2026

Survivor of human trafficking in Elyria now a fierce advocate for other survivors

By Christopher Johnston ● Public Safety ● July 29, 2026

After enduring multiple human traffickers, Brittany Figlar is now fighting for systemic change to how we approach survivors.

Crowdfunding has become a lifeline for LGBTQ+ Ohioans of color

By Siaara Freeman & The Buckeye Flame ● Social Equity ● July 20, 2026

Community members say online fundraisers and mutual aid are filling gaps left by housing, healthcare and employment systems.

Empowering The Culture: Tristan Wheeler’s vision for gaming beyond the screen

By Tim Zaun ● Arts & Culture ● July 15, 2026

“Games culture is about people. While gaming is often viewed only as entertainment, it can also create opportunities for leadership development, teamwork, creativity, technical skills and relationship-building.”

Residents lose trust in local government over plan to drain Lower Shaker Lake

By Peter Gelderloos ● Civic Engagement ● July 10, 2026

Over 4,000 people have signed a petition to save the lakes and stop the Sewer District’s plans.

Fear grips Haitian communities after Supreme Court ruling unwinds protection from deportation

By The Associated Press ● Government ● June 27, 2026

Fear is ricocheting through Haitian communities across the United States after the Supreme Court decided to allow the Trump administration to end legal protections for migrants fleeing violence and natural disasters.

2nd Annual Men’s Health Summit at Tower City broadens its scope

By Nate Paige ● Health ● June 26, 2026

The Healeth Summit will be held Saturday at Tower City Center.