Ministers mount movement for justice, inclusion and DEI advocacy

The Greater Cincinnati Faith Leaders say are standing together to affirm their unwavering support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. 

At a press conference on April 4 at New Prospect Baptist Church, 1580 Summit Road, the members of the organization declared their solidarity with businesses, institutions and individuals who remain steadfast in their commitment to these values, and they are sending a clear message to those who seek to undermine them.

The Greater Cincinnati Faith Leaders is a coalition of diverse religious leaders committed to fostering unity, justice and equity within the Cincinnati community.

“As faith leaders committed to truth, justice and inclusion, we now, more than ever, must unite to protect the fundamental rights and opportunities that ensure all people—regardless of race, background, or status—have a seat at the table. Silence is not an option. The time to act is now,’’ they stated.

The Greater Cincinnati Faith Leaders gathering was in opposition to President Donald Trump’s Executive Order banning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), they said.

Greater Cincinnati Faith Leaders tentative Civil Rights action plan includes a year-long strategy for justice and equality that builds momentum, engages the community, pressures institutions, and brings about lasting change for justice, equality and opportunity.     

With events to be announced during the year, plans are for a city-wide prayer meeting; organize interdenominational participation, incorporating music, scripture readings and testimonies from those impacted by injustice; holding an awareness rally and march; boycotts of hostile businesses; conduct town halls and legal rights workshops; and host a youth and student mobilization conference, among other measures.   

“The President’s overreaching executive order is not just an attack on policies, it is an attack on justice, truth, fairness and equity which guides our nation’s moral conscience,” they added.

Further, they stated, “We recognize the anxiety and frustration that so many are experiencing in today’s volatile political climate. This assault on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is not just another policy debate—it is a challenge as significant as the historic battles against slavery, the struggle witnessed during Civil Rights protests, the impositions of Jim Crow, the brutal realities of segregation and redlining, and the systemic denial of voting rights. Just as in those pivotal moments, our response must be grounded in the same resilience, resistance, and unwavering commitment to justice that has always defined our fight for equality.

Greater Cincinnati Faith Leaders, they noted, are standing with the people, standing up for truth, justice and inclusion. “We refuse to go back or rewind the clock to a time when rights and opportunities were not afforded to all. DEI is not just an initiative—it is a moral imperative. It ensures that voices long silenced are heard, that opportunities long denied are granted, and that our workplaces, schools, and institutions reflect the diversity of God’s creation.”

The faith leaders are standing in solidarity with corporations and individuals who remain steadfast in their support for DEI, and they plan to use their collective economic power to send a clear message to those who do not. 

“This is not the time for complacency. We resist all misinformation and disinformation and stay vigilant in the pursuit of truth. We will use every tool at our disposal to meet our goal. The forces of regression will not discourage, silence, or disengage us. We will press forward with faith and action, knowing that justice is on our side. We call on all people of conscience—faith leaders, educators, and community members—to stand boldly for a nation where diversity is celebrated, equity is prioritized, and inclusion is non-negotiable,” they said.

Rooted in faith and service, the organization advocates social change, promotes inclusivity and works to address pressing societal issues, including racial justice, economic empowerment, and educational equity to create a more just and compassionate society for all.

For more information, contact the GCFL Communications Committee at 513 374-6041 or at gcflohio@gmail.com.