Speaker highlights Black excellence and history in Columbus, Ohio's freedom journey

On February 21, 2025, the Columbus City Council convened to celebrate Black History Month and honor local leaders at the Poindexter Award Ceremony. The meeting highlighted the significant contributions of Black residents in Columbus, emphasizing their role in establishing a foundation of freedom, excellence, and wealth in the community.

The keynote speaker began by framing the discussion around the acronym "FEW," representing Freedom, Excellence, and Wealth. The speaker pointed out that Ohio, often associated with agriculture and the Buckeye State, has a rich history of Black freedom that is frequently overlooked. Following the Revolutionary War, Ohio emerged as a beacon of freedom, allowing free Black individuals to coexist and thrive alongside white residents, a unique situation in the early 19th century.

The speaker provided historical context, noting that in 1810, Columbus had 43 free Black residents, a significant number given the restrictive Black laws of the time. These laws imposed financial burdens, such as a $500 bond—equivalent to $14,000 today—on Black residents, making the existence of free Black individuals in Columbus noteworthy. By the 1840s, the Black population in Columbus had grown to 1,600, representing 10% of the city's total population. This growth was accompanied by the establishment of private schools and entrepreneurial ventures, showcasing the community's resilience and ambition.

One prominent figure mentioned was Hanson Johnson, a barber and real estate entrepreneur who became one of Columbus's first Black millionaires. His innovative business practices, including purchasing properties in predominantly white neighborhoods, exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit that characterized the Black community in Columbus. Johnson's legacy continued through his descendants, further solidifying the impact of Black excellence in the region.

The meeting also recognized the contributions of EE Ward Moving and Storage, established in 1881, as one of the oldest Black-owned businesses in the country. This company played a crucial role in the economic development of Black Columbus, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in achieving economic independence.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored the historical and ongoing contributions of Black residents to Columbus's cultural and economic landscape. The City Council's recognition of these achievements during Black History Month serves as a reminder of the community's rich heritage and the importance of celebrating its leaders. The event not only honored past accomplishments but also aimed to inspire future generations to continue the legacy of excellence and resilience in the face of adversity.