Opinion: Pureval, Owens sacrificed hard-won progress by ending Black council majority

The first African American was elected to Cincinnati City Council in 1931, less than a century ago. While African Americans have been elected to City Council over many decades, it wasn’t until 2021 that white and Black citizens elected a majority of African American council members. This was a great achievement for Cincinnati. In a pivotal moment for the city, Mayor Aftab Pureval faced an important opportunity to demonstrate true leadership and strategic influence. However, he faltered in his responsibility to uphold the hard-won progress made by the African-American community in local governance. It was essential for the mayor to positively encourage Councilwoman Meeka Owens not to disrupt the five-member African American majority on the City Council − an achievement that had been the result of decades of struggle andcollective effort from both Black and white residents. More:Why Meeka Owens named lawyer Evan Nolan to Cincinnati City Council The ramifications of the Oct. 17 decision to dismantle the five-member African American majority by Owens’ appointment of Evan Nolan were not adequately considered. Although Nolan is undoubtedly a capable individual, he became part of a flawed selection process that left many feeling confused, locked out and disheartened. Mayor Pureval should have...