Join UAPA for the ReSisters presentation of the 2022 Courage of Conviction Awards

When times get tough one can lose sight of the patriotism revealed in the day-to-day work accomplished by leaders and activists. The people who win some battles but lose too many and yet get up and work even harder the next day: thus, the genesis of the ReSisters of Central Ohio Courage of Conviction Awards.

That is why Ohio State Representative and House Minority Leader, Allison Russo and activist, Mia Lewis of Common Cause of Ohio have been singled out for the first in what we hope will be an annual award. This award is given to one elected leader and one grassroots activist to be recognized at a reception on September 8, 2022.

As you may know, Leader Russo, upon her elevation to her current position, also became a member of the Ohio Redistricting Commission (ORC). Ever since, she has been fighting to get the ORC to fulfill their duty to implement the redistricting rules the citizens voted into the Ohio Constitution and the orders of the Ohio Supreme Court. The current gerrymandered districts are unconstitutional and prevent Ohioans from being fairly represented. Leader Russo has become our fair maps warrior and to her we are grateful.

Mia Lewis of Common Cause and Fair Districts is yet another road warrior who crisscrosses the state--does she never sleep?--in efforts to educate the public about the imminent dangers to free elections that the supermajority poses. Under the guise of preventing voter fraud, Republicans have drawn maps and legislated policies that will reduce voter participation and enable them to reject any election results that don’t suit them. Ms. Lewis is indefatigable in her efforts to empower and activate voters.

This award celebrates the hard work and persistence needed to protect democracy. Also, the money needed. This reception is also a fundraiser to enable the continuance of their efforts. Your contributions will be split between the honorees to support their work. The reception costs are largely covered by members of The Resisters of Central Ohio. The ReSisters of Central Ohio was founded in 2017 as a grassroots local organization dedicated to promoting progressive candidates at the state and local level as well as to promoting social justice causes.

So come and celebrate with us at the Whetstone Park of Roses Shelter House in Clintonville on September 8, 2022 at 6:30 for a reception for these two remarkable women who are fighting daily on our behalf. You are welcome whether you can contribute a little or a lot. Please RSVP to ensure that enough food and beverages are supplied.

Please join us for the first annual Courage of Conviction awards