By Alexandria Leatherberry
The Truth Reporter
State Rep. Erika White of District 41 led a community mobilization training Saturday, January 10, at the AFSCME Center, 420 S. Reynolds Road. The session brought together residents for discussions and hands-on activities focused on engaging effectively with policy stakeholders and changemakers.
White began her term in January 2025 following a two-year campaign, emphasizing the importance of community preparedness ahead of the upcoming primary elections in May. Infrastructure remains a key priority of her platform, and the training served as a call to action to ensure community voices are heard.
White opened the training at 10 a.m. with a discussion on understanding partisan perspectives. “As much as you hold strong values behind your beliefs, so do others,” White said, setting the tone for the session. “The goal isn’t to win, but to be heard.”
Following White’s introduction, Bill Tucholski, board member Northwest Ohio Friends of Public Education (NWOFPE), shared his experience writing to local publications and government officials. The former educator outlined guidelines and frameworks that have helped his advocacy efforts receive responses. He described how his involvement in policy discussions often began with a letter. “Letters turn into phone calls,” Tucholski said.
The afternoon portion of the training focused on hands-on advocacy, including a canvassing demonstration and a mock legislative hearing. The canvassing discussion addressed volunteer responsibilities, legal considerations and the challenges of door-to-door engagement.
Participants then took part in a mock committee meeting, where they practiced delivering testimony for or against proposed House bills. Each attendee was assigned a role to better understand legislative protocols and expectations for being heard during state meetings. The exercise reinforced White’s goal of preparing community members for real-world advocacy.
“This is going to help us be more effective and prepared when we get there,” said Schylar Meadows, a public relations professional.
White concluded the training with a guided relaxation session led by Molly Quinn, owner of YogaSix. Participants laid on mats for meditation and reflection as they prepared for continued civic engagement.
White plans to continue offering the mobilization training to help communities stay informed and active in the political process. She encouraged organizations and institutions to incorporate the training into their activities ahead of the primary elections to promote active voter participation. Those interested in hosting a mobilization training can contact White through her official website at ohiohouse.gov/members/erika-white/contact.