When local media reported Columbus Police Chief Thomas Quinlan was stepping downon Thursday, January 28, many Columbus residents were relieved and hopeful. The Columbus Dispatch quoted Mayor Andy Ginther’s rationale for asking the chief to leave: “Columbus residents have lost faith in him and in the division's ability to change on its own.” Ginther demoted former Chief Quinlan back to deputy chief.

Ohio’s capital city experienced a tumultuous year of social justice protests and the continued exposure of the Columbus Division of Police’s racist and violent activities. Black Lives Matter protests starting with George Floyd’s murder by police in the spring were marred by numerous incidents of excessive police violence and over-charging protesters – resulting in promises from city government that things would change.

“Quinlan represents the status quo, which is evident when you look at the lack of impactful changes he failed to make,” a current Columbus police officer noted, “the City of Columbus and the Division of Police are worse off now than when he took over.” 

On the January 25th global day of action to end the war on Yemen one of the most dramatic actions that moved the demand for peace into the most media stories was taken by members of World BEYOND War and our allies, including Labour Against the Arms Trade in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

We blocked trucks outside Paddock Transportation International. Paddock ships armored vehicles to Saudi Arabia for the Saudi-led war on Yemen — or at least it tries to!

Paddock’s trucks were delayed and their office flooded with calls. A great deal of attention was brought to the issue. For the first time, a Liberal Member of Parliament broke with the government’s position and publicly supported our demands.

“A Regime of Jewish Supremacy from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea: This is Apartheid,” was the title of a January 12 report by the Israeli rights group B’Tselem. No matter how one is to interpret B’Tselem’s findings, the report is earth-shattering. The official Israeli response merely confirmed what B’Tselem has stated in no uncertain terms.

Facebook Event

Free Resource Friday is a donation-based initiative to provide free resources like food, clothes, and hygiene items to folks living in predominantly Black, low-income neighborhoods. Volunteers distribute items, share information, and provide support for local communities in need.

All are welcome, but QTPOC people take priority within the space.

Masks are required to enter the space. Come out from 4pm to 6pm on January 29 for free resources such as food, clothing, and hygiene products.

If you’d like to support Free Resource Fridays by donating materials, or if you’d like to get involved by offering a skill-share mini-workshop or educational class, contact us! We are always looking to foster and strengthen our partnerships in the Central Ohio community. We are also accepting donations at the event, particularly warm washed winter clothing as the weather is getting colder.