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Rep. Hearcel Craig recognized as a leader in the advancement of the African American community

February 8, 2016
Democratic Newsroom

Press Release Poster

The Central Seventh-day Adventist Church of Columbus, Ohio honored Rep. Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus) Saturday with the Black History Achievement Award. Rep. Craig received the award during the Church’s Worship Experience.

“It is a humbling honor to accept this award on behalf of all those who have dedicated their lives to improving the quality of life for African Americans and all people” said Rep. Craig. “I look forward to working to expand opportunities and equality while continuing to influence policy that unites and empowers African Americans across the state of Ohio.”

The Black History Achievement Award is bestowed to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to African Americans and their communities. The honor is awarded in February during Black History Month to commend recipients for their commitment, dedication and service. Past honorees of this award have included former Mayor of Columbus, Michael Coleman, Philanthropist Dr. Jacinto Beard and NASA Engineer for the first manned space flight, Dr. Clark Beck. Among this years honorees was U.S. Representative Congresswoman, Joyce Beatty.

Since his time in office, Rep. Craig has introduced legislation that would increase job opportunities for Ohio’s veterans, as a means to provide more meaningful employment for some of the states most highly trained and educated workers. Craig has also helped lead the Commission on Infant Mortality, a bipartisan panel created to address Ohio’s troubling rate of babies who die before their first birthdays. The state leads the nation in African American infant deaths.

The former Columbus City Councilman has an extensive background in service. Rep. Craig has been a continued advocate for job creation, economic development, access to health care, improved schools and better access to public recreation centers.  Craig has also served on the Southside Learning and Development Center’s Board of Trustees, the Ohio Hunger Task Force Board of Trustees and the Columbus Cultural art Center Board of Trustees.

Editor’s note: Photo from the event is attached.