Commission on Black Girls

About the Commission on Black Girls: The Commission on Black Girls (COBG) was established in July 2018 by former Councilmember Priscilla Tyson to enhance the quality of life for Black girls in Columbus and Central Ohio.

In July 2020, the Commission released A Report on the Quality of Life of Black Girls in Columbus, Ohio. This report includes research findings, strategies, and recommendations to guide ongoing efforts to support Black girls and address the challenges they face.

In June 2022, the Commission joined the Department of Neighborhoods to strengthen its work alongside initiatives like My Brother’s Keeper and the Community Relations Commission, focusing on enriching the lives of Black girls in our community.

Mission: The Commission on Black Girls is a hub for programs, policies, and partnerships that support the advancement of Black Girls so that they have the skills, resources, and opportunities to thrive beyond survival. 

Vision: Black Girls will Thrive in Central Ohio.

Why the Commission is Needed

Long-standing systemic inequities continue to create significant challenges for Black women, starting from childhood. Racial disparities persist in nearly every socioeconomic indicator, including income, wealth, education, and health.

Improving the quality of life for Black women is essential for the continued development of Columbus. Policymakers and community leaders must prioritize addressing these disparities, starting with the experiences of Black girls. This is especially critical given that approximately 60% of Black children in Columbus live in single-mother households. By focusing on the experiences of Black girls, we can create meaningful interventions that improve their future outcomes and strengthen Black families and communities.