The City Club of Cleveland Podcast

Over the past two decades, the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) has been steadily replacing and rebuilding virtually its entire stock of low income and affordable housing across Greater Cleveland. As CMHA's CEO since 2012, Jeffery Patterson has led an ongoing process of neighbor and resident engagement, ensuring that every resident has a voice in the future of the community and the facilities that are being built.rnrnBy special request of the donors who created our annual Leadership for the Greater Good Forum, Jeffery Patterson will be joined by City Club CEO Dan Moulthrop for a collegial conversation about leadership and the importance of prioritizing community voice. Moulthrop has led the City Club since 2013, and his tenure has been recognized not only for the successful move to Playhouse Square but perhaps, more importantly, by the increasing relevance and accessibility of City Club forums.

Mehdi Hasan isn't one to avoid arguments. He relishes them as the lifeblood of democracy and the only surefire way to establish the truth. His unapologetic approach to journalism has made Hasan a highly sought after expert for his sharp, unfiltered perspectives on politics, media accountability, democratic norms, and more.rnrnAs an award-winning British-American journalist, broadcaster, and author, Hasan left mainstream media and now serves as the founder, CEO and editor-in-chief of the new media company Zeteo--which comes from the ancient Greek word for 'seeking out' and 'striving.' Zeteo aims to seek answers to the questions that really matter, while always striving for the truth. Hasan is also the best-selling author of Win Every Argument: The Art of Debating, Persuading, and Public Speaking. Hasan previously worked as an anchor at MSNBC and columnist for The Intercept, and was included in the annual global list of 'The 500 Most Influential Muslims' in the world ('The Muslim 500').

As the lasting impact of colonialism and slavery is felt throughout Native American tribes and Black communities today, museums across the nation are grappling with issues of patrimony and provenance regarding art, artifacts, relics, and remains. These items were often taken without consent, long before ethical protocols for procurement were established.rnrnNow, museums are working to find solutions in collaboration with community and comply with federal laws, such as the Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Enacted in the 1990s, the Biden Administration recently issued updated policies that ultimately led to some museums covering up or removing some displays until the appropriate determinations could be made. This act reignited a conversation on museums' role in reconciliation, addressing historical injustices, and cross-cultural understanding.rnrnThe City Club is once again proud to partner with The Cleveland Orchestra as part of the third annual Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Opera and Humanities Festival. Join us as we hear from museum leadership from Washington, D.C., New York City, and here in Ohio on how American cultural institutions are charting a new path forward on reconciliation and repatriation.

Originally expanded in 2014 under the Kasich administration, Ohio is one of 41 states, including the District of Columbia, that has implemented Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act. However, the addition of trigger language into the current state budget bill would allow Ohio to disenroll from Medicaid expansion if federal assistance for the program drops below 90%. The trigger language comes as congressional Republicans in D.C. consider cutting the federal match for Medicaid expansion.rnrnFor Ohio, it's a move that could strip healthcare access from over 770,000 Ohioans; including about 362,000 in rural Ohio counties.rnrnAdvocates in health equity, maternal and infant vitality, mental health, and more have sounded the alarm on what it means to return to an era before Medicaid expansion. A rollback would also disproportionately impact rural communities and their hospitals, adding to already staggering health disparities.rnrnFeaturing:rnDomonic HopsonrnPresident and CEO, Neighborhood Family PracticernrnBeejadi Mukunda, MDrnVP & Market Chief Medical Officer, Ohio, CareSourcernrnAmy Rohling McGeernPresident, Health Policy Institute of OhiornrnModeratorrnEmily CampbellrnPresident & CEO, The Center for Community Solutions

Sarah Lewis's book The Unseen Truth: When Race Changed Sight in America examines America from the end of the Civil War to the beginning of Jim Crow when the country's conception of race, and whiteness, was transforming. A finalist for the 2025 Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards, Lewis uncovers a pivotal era when Americans came to ignore the truth about the false foundations of the nation's racial regime. Thanks to Professor Lewis's historical detective work, what we see and what's left unseen shapes everything we believe about ourselves and other people - and how we can start changing the narrative about who counts and who belongs in America.rnrnSarah Lewis is an award-winning art historian, founder of Vision & Justice, and the John L. Loeb Associate Professor of the Humanities and Associate Professor of African and African American Studies at Harvard University. She is also the author of the bestseller The Rise: Creativity, the Gift of Failure, and the Search for Mastery, as well as the forthcoming book Vision & Justice.

Wilbur Ross has earned a reputation as one of the nation's hard-nosed negotiators and "King of Bankruptcy" over his 55-year career on Wall Street. This reputation, in part, landed him among Bloomberg's 50 most influential people in global finance, and a role as Secretary of Commerce during Trump's first administration.rnrnAfter coming to Washington, Ross faced tough challenges, yet survived in his post for all four years. During his tenure, Ross was involved in negotiating and implementing tariffs on China and elsewhere. Undoubtedly, there are few others with deep insight into the mind of President Trump, and the President's motives on tariffs, taxes, and deregulation policies.rnrnIn his latest book, Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life, Ross explains how he got to the top and stayed there. The book serves as a candid reflection of a life lived at the pinnacle of Wall Street, New York, and Palm Beach society, and the Trump administration.

Tired of swiping left? You're not alone. Today's society is arguably facing a digital dating overload. In addition, more adults than ever have reported feelings of loneliness and isolation from friends, family, and community. Social structures have changed, and with them, the way we approach and participate in love, joy, and connection.rnrnHeidi Friedman knows what it's like to soldier through years of dating and finding true connection in today's times. Her first book, Love Lessons explores what true love really looks like through her personal journey of 104 dates over 10 years. It's a witty and insightful guide for anyone looking for love, reevaluating a current relationship, or starting over on the quest for the right one. With humor and authenticity, Love Lessons reflects Heidi's research, survival of many awkward dates, and finally meeting her true partner--through a mutual friend, Ann Zoller!rnrnHeidi is also a partner at Thompson Hine where she has been practicing environmental law and providing ESG counsel to clients nationally for over 30 years. Heidi has also written regularly for Bloomberg, Law 360, and other publications related to her professional life and experience as a female lawyerrnrnJoin us at the City Club as Heidi Friedman sits down with Ann Zoller to talk about her new book Love Lessons, and what we all can learn about love, joy, and connection today.

On March 20th, President Trump issued an executive order effectively abolishing the Department of Education. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT) have already filed a lawsuit to block the dismantling, alleging the executive branch has exceeded its constitutional authority and violated law. As the nation watches the flurry of executive orders and legal action unfold on public education, what does this mean for the nation's K-12 and higher education students?rnrnDerek Black is a Professor of Law at the University of South Carolina School of Law, the Ernest F. Hollings Chair in Constitutional Law, and directs the Constitutional Law Center. He is one of the nation's foremost experts in education law and policy. He offers expert witness testimony in school funding, voucher, and federal policy litigation and his research is routinely cited in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.rnrnHe is also the author of a leading education law casebook, Education Law: Equality, Fairness, and Reform, and other books aimed at wider audiences. His 2020 book Schoolhouse Burning: Public Education and the Assault on American Democracy describes a full-scale assault on public education that threatens not just public education but American democracy itself. His forthcoming book, Dangerous Learning: The South's Long War on Black Literacy outlines the enduring legacy of the nineteenth-century struggle for Black literacy in the American South.

As Russia's war with Ukraine entered a fourth year on February 24, 2025, several things happened. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House to be told by President Trump that he "did not have the cards;" the US began to pull back aid for Ukrainian forces; and shortly after that Ukraine secured the support of European Union allies and launched a drone attack directly on Moscow. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin put his own conditions on any potential ceasefire deal.rnrnIn the pages of The Atlantic, Johns Hopkins professor Eliot Cohen weighed in, arguing that Russia is actually losing the war. "Ukraine has plenty of cards," Cohen wrote, "even if Trump and Vance can't see them."rnrnHowever and whenever it ends, the resolution of this conflict could have a tectonic impact on geopolitics and power dynamics in Europe and throughout the world. Ambassador Paula Dobriansky joins Professor Cohen in a conversation about the prospects for an enduring peace and the greater impact of the conflict on the region and the global order.

In a July 2024 CNBC report, Ohio ranked 7th in business opportunities but received an "F" grade when it comes to workforce. Employers are looking for workers to advance their businesses and constantly talk about the need for workforce development. Meanwhile, there are thousands of justice-impacted individuals who would welcome the opportunity to work in these jobs. Connecting these two groups would help create a massive increase in the workforce pool and lift the entire economy.rnrnResearch suggests that Ohio's expansive collateral sanctions limit access to more than one in four jobs statewide, costing individuals an estimated $3.4 billion in foregone wages and artificially constraining access to talent for businesses.rnrnHow can public policy play a role in helping bridge the gap between these two groups, reduce employment barriers, and assist in providing more individuals with second chances in employment...and in life?rnrnIn partnership with Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry (LMM), join the City Club as we present the 2025 Charles R. See Forum on Reentry. We will welcome a panel of experts who can share their perspectives on what community leaders can do to answer this question, and what we as a community can do to help.

Join us for Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb's 4th Annual State of the City, marking the final address of the Mayor's first term. This year's event will feature Mayor Bibb in a live conversation with WKYC's Russ Mitchell, discussing the initiatives driving Cleveland's growth and transformation.rnrnCleveland's historic Public Auditorium - now home to the Cleveland Charge - will serve as the backdrop for this celebration of the city's progress and a look at the year ahead.

State Senator Jerry Cirino has emerged as one of the most powerful members of the Ohio legislature. The finance committee chair and Kirtland area Republican is serving his second term. Senator Cirino also serves as vice chair of Higher Education committee. Indeed, higher ed is perhaps where the Senator is most well known. His proposal to reform higher education has reemerged as Senate Bill 1, a wide-ranging initiative to roll back campus diversity efforts and place some limits on the classroom discussion of so-called "controversial topics."rnrnAs chair of the Finance Committee, Sen. Cirino is responsible for leading the drafting the senate's version of the state's capital and operating budgets, as well as any other additional expenditures. Cirino also serves on the Energy, Housing, and Rules Committees. He represents Lake County and communities in the east and southeast sides of Cuyahoga County.

This student-led forum, the last in the 2024-2025 school year, offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about social media and political content.rnrnSocial media has accelerated to become the most preferred news source for teenagers and young adults. Across the board, research concludes that platforms including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube drive youth consumption, often on the most contentious political issues. The resulting content has inspired many sides of debate, including proponents and opponents of moderation, free speech, and fact-checking.rnrnThis student-led forum offers a rare opportunity to understand how new generations receive their news content. How does, and should, Gen Z critically analyze their political news feed? Is fact-checking a moderate approach to tackle misinformation or does it stifle free expression? Compared to legacy media outlets, in what ways are modern news and content sources better equipped to address the youth?

In February, Congressman Ro Khanna penned a New York Times op-ed noting that to persuade Americans that transformative government is capable of improving their lives, we must reverse what many have experienced as decades of stagnation and decline. "With the establishment of both parties defeated, we are, as you may have heard, at a fork in the road." Khanna wrote, "Either the country will continue to succumb to a burn-it-all-down political nihilism and disillusionment, or Democrats can use this moment of crisis to reframe the terms of the debate."rnrnBut what are the terms of that debate? And what are the initiatives and solutions that will heal our divides during uncertain times?rnrnRo Khanna is a United States Congressman from California's 17th District in the heart of Silicon Valley. He has a vision to transform America into a modern manufacturing and technology superpower, and he partners it with a commitment to passing Medicare for All, a $17-dollar minimum wage, and free public college and vocational school. Congressman Khanna is Deputy Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and served as co-chair of Bernie Sanders' 2020 presidential campaign.

Cleveland and Cuyahoga County have struggled for decades with myriad challenges that have impeded economic empowerment and growth. Although Cleveland's leading business, philanthropic, governmental, and civic leaders and organizations have each invested mightily in various initiatives to address these challenges, improved quality of life outcomes have not been realized for too many local citizens. The Urban Agenda is an unprecedented collective of many leading organizations committing to work together to define, enhance and track economic opportunities, with a keen focus on poverty reduction, increasing average household incomes, and closing wealth gaps.

Ten years ago, leaders at the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC) began to recognize the emergence of a new mainstream economy-powered by U.S. Latino consumers, entrepreneurs, and workers-which was making an outsized contribution to the nation's economic growth. Yet, this positive growth they were seeing in the data was not reflected in a larger, inaccurate narrative about Latino contributions. Instead, the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes often manifested into harmful laws and policies, negatively impacting Latino businesses and communities. Together with the Latino Data Collaborative Think Tank, LDC began to ask, "What if American Latinos were all recognized as valued, patriotic Americans in all facets of American life?"rnrnAna Valdez is the President and CEO of The Latino Donor Collaborative. She is an American marketing, media, research, and political expert and thought leader with 30 years of experience in business, media, and the corporate world. Valdez recognizes the urgency of producing reputable data and statistics that showcase the invaluable contributions of American Latinos to the U.S. economy, business, entertainment, development, and the overall U.S. GDP. In 2023, LDC's outreach has touched over 250,000 C-level executives and sparked discussions with more than 2 million individuals.rnrnIn a moment when fearful rhetoric and a barrage of deficit narratives attempt to drive the conversation on Latino excellence, join the City Club as Ana Valdez outlines what we can learn from the data and research, and how we can accurately reflect the identity of Latinos in America and their contributions to the nation that benefit all of us.

There are few others with as much experience covering the Supreme Court, Department of Justice, and Homeland Security than Pete Williams. He served as an NBC News Correspondent in Washington, DC for 29 years, and last year was named the inaugural Journalist in Residence at John Carroll University. The late Tim Russert, longtime host of NBC's Meet the Press and namesake of John Carroll University's Russert Department of Communication, inspired Williams to engage with John Carroll.rnrnBefore joining NBC News, Williams was an aide in the US Senate and House of Representatives. In 1986 he joined the staff of then-Congressman Dick Cheney as press secretary and legislative assistant. In 1989, when Cheney became Secretary of Defense, Williams was confirmed by the Senate as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs.

Sally Ride became a household name after she became the first American woman to blast off into space. But as Sally journeyed among the stars, she kept a nearly three-decade relationship with author and tennis player Tam O'Shaughnessy a secret.rnrnOn Saturday, April 5th, the Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) will screen SALLY, a chronicle of Sally Ride's challenges as a pioneering woman in STEM, and the sacrifices made during her years together with her life partner. For the first time, SALLY tells the whole story of this complicated and iconic astronaut. From National Geographic Documentary Films, SALLY is directed by Emmy(R) Award-winning filmmaker Cristina Costantini.rnrnYet, this film also comes at a fragile time in America's political climate, where once again the LGBTQ+ community is caught in the crosshairs. Add to this, an anti-DEI movement that many believe will threaten to set back decades of progress for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Are we destined to confront the same challenges as Sally did in the 1980s?

This upcoming year will undoubtedly bring substantial change to Cleveland's political landscape. A population decline in Cleveland spurred a redraw of ward maps, which were approved by Cleveland City Council in February, but not without controversy. Now there's a new 15-ward playing field, and two open seats following the announcement from long-time Council members Jenny Spencer and Kerry McCormack that they will not run for reelection. New candidates are already jumping into the race.rnrnMeanwhile, in the Mayor's office, the Bibb administration is working to ensure a second term come this November's election. What opportunities and challenges can Clevelanders expect from the City's new political landscape? Join us at the Happy Dog in Gordon Square for a reporter's roundtable, providing insight and analysis on Cleveland's new political ground.

Imagine a Northeast Ohio where all people have quality jobs and careers with thriving employers. This is the vision of Greater Cleveland Works, the workforce development board of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. Workforce development boards are a crucial part of the workforce system-liaisons between federal and local governments that distribute public dollars to support job seekers and employers.rnrnYet, their work is opaque and misunderstood at best. They are more than job matchmakers-they are engines of opportunity and innovation, ensuring businesses have the skilled workers they need and communities have pathways to prosperity.rnrnWith new leadership, a new nonprofit structure, a new strategy, and a new brand, Greater Cleveland Works is reinventing its role - and wants you to better understand its work and the possibilities for collaboration.rnrnJoin Greater Cleveland Works CEO Michelle Rose as we dive into the critical role of this organization, the potential impact of federal funding instability, and why now-more than ever-we must advocate for the resources that build careers, strengthen industries, and future-proof our economy.

For over a century, the Cleveland Foundation and Kresge Foundation have worked to improve the lives of residents and champion equity in Cleveland, Detroit and beyond. Building on their legacies, both organizations are innovating for the future and reshaping the field of place-based philanthropy. The Cleveland Foundation has embarked on a new chapter with its historic move to MidTown/Hough and is focused on growing our region, investing in vibrant neighborhoods and connecting people to prosperity. The Kresge Foundation has expanded its long-standing efforts to increase opportunity across American cities, with a deep focus on its hometown of Detroit.rnrnThis is a bold new era as legacy institutions like the Cleveland and Kresge foundations are thinking about the next 100 years of place-based philanthropy - including how they leverage their purpose and power to advance critical work that will lead to transformational change and more equitable communities.rnrnCleveland Foundation President and CEO Lillian Kuri and Kresge Foundation President and CEO Rip Rapson will be joined by moderator Mark Joseph, PhD, the Leona Bevis/Marguerite Haynam Professor in Community Development at the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University.rnrnRapson will also discuss his recently published book "Drawn to Challenge: Stories of Leadership in the Public Interest (with doodles)." These stories show his unique approach to tackling the challenges of cities and the society at large.

As the national business and economic landscape rapidly shifts, Citizens CEO Bruce Van Saun will spend March crisscrossing the country to meet with dozens of public and private sector leaders to guide and listen. Many Americans are on edge, or may not be well-prepared for change. How can Cleveland businesses and communities lead with confidence amidst uncertainty, and emerge stronger and more resilient?rnrnNew data and findings from local business owners and Citizens' operations right here in Cleveland have shed light on the state of business in the region. This includes workforce development challenges and opportunities, prospects for near-term growth, and embracing technological transformation - from A.I. to cloud computing. Now, it's time to unpack what it means to invest in the future, and Cleveland's business economy.rnrnBruce Van Saun joined Citizens in October 2013 after serving as Group Finance Director at the Royal Bank of Scotland and as an executive director on the RBS Board from 2009 to 2013. Join us at the City Club as Bruce discusses the vital role of the American banking system in driving economic growth; and shares insights on how Cleveland businesses and communities can thrive in tumultuous times.

Perhaps no widespread social initiative has been targeted by the presidential administration and others in political power as aggressively as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs. Among the Executive Orders signed by President Trump on day 1 was an order "Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing." Another that day took aim at so-called "gender ideology." Here in Ohio, an aligned effort has taken shape with Senate Bill 1, which among many changes to higher ed, would eliminate DEI programs at colleges and universities.rnrnThe Executive Orders immediately reverberated across the country. In higher education, healthcare, the non-profit sector, and private enterprise, firms and institutions tried to assess the potential impact on their work, their stakeholders, and their future. Some engaged in what's come to be known as "pre-emptive compliance." Some have maintained a "wait and see" posture, understanding that even Executive Orders may not be durable and may face court battles, which they, in fact, do. And others, such as Costco and the Cleveland Cavaliers publicly redoubled their commitment to DEI and creating environments in which everyone feels a sense of belonging.rnrnAfter decades of progress in addressing systemic and structural racism, to many, this moment represents a step backwards. Join us to hear from local leaders who have long supported the community in creating more welcoming spaces and institutions. We'll assess the state of DEI, the meaning of this moment, and the prospects for the future.

For more than two decades, The City Club of Cleveland has hosted the annual High School Debate Championship.rnrnEvery year, the top two area high school debaters square off in a classic "Lincoln-Douglas" style debate at a Friday forum. This allows the debaters to compete-not only for the judges and audience in the room-but also for our radio and television audiences.rnrnThe finalists will debate the topic Resolved: The development of Artificial General Intelligence is immoral.rnrnOn behalf of BakerHostetler, we are honored to support this annual tradition in memory of Patrick Jordan--a lawyer, fierce protector of democracy and free speech, and a championship debater himself. You can learn more about the life and legacy of Pat Jordan at the 2022 High School Debate Championship here, or read the transcript here.

The early days of the second Trump administration brought a dizzying number of policy and practice changes to the federal government. Through executive orders, directives, proclamations by social media, emails to federal employees, and statements to the press, President Trump, his administration, and his formal and informal advisers are bringing change to government and U.S. geopolitical standing with a velocity unmatched in U.S. history.rnrnThere's debate, however, about whether all this change is actually making America great (again) or is a destabilization of already beleaguered government institutions and frayed relationships with allies. On Fox News, Hugh Hewitt described the president's first week as "the governing equivalent of batting 1.000 or hitting 10 for 10 from behind the arc in the NBA." Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal editorial board took aim at the following week's tariff announcements with the headline "The Dumbest Trade War in History."

Marvel's 2018 film Black Panther not only broke box office records, it also changed perceptions of Black superheroes and African culture. As the first film to feature a Black superhero, the film's director and writers wasted zero time taking up space in an industry that traditionally lacks BIPOC representation. Joining the team was Ruth E. Carter, whose skill in blending African-American history and contemporary culture through fashion, combined with her determination to showcase Black excellence, won an Academy Award in 2019.rnrnrnNow through April 6th, Clevelanders will have the opportunity to be up close to the outfits created by Carter, in conjunction with the Cleveland Orchestra's performance of Ludwig G?ransson's Oscar-winning score from Black Panther on March 28-29. It is a rare opportunity to see what it looks like when communities can tell their own stories through their creativity, and shift narratives for lasting change.

As the nation continues to grapple with rising homelessness and rising housing costs, the need to create and preserve more affordable homes has never been more acute. Yet, innovations are happening at the local level to spur safer, stronger communities. What are the practical solutions for bringing down escalating housing costs? And how can a national movement leverage proven solutions to ending homelessness and our housing crisis?rnrnJoin us at the City Club for a wide-ranging discussion with Enterprise Community Partners President and CEO Shaun Donovan and Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) on the housing challenges facing Cleveland, the State of Ohio, and the nation.

What does accountability in healthcare, workplaces, and educational systems look like for Black Women? This is the question that Enlightened Solutions, a nonprofit social enterprise and social advocacy think tank asked in their 2024 follow-up report to Project Noir. The original report, released in 2021, was the first survey of its kind to understand better why Cleveland was ranked last as a livable city for Black Women.rnrnNow, with an enhanced survey methodology and questions, the 2024 report provides another glimpse into the lived experiences of Black Women in our communities. Has anything changed since 2020?rnrnKayla S. Griffin Green, Esq., MPA, Ohio State Director, All Voting is Local; Chinenye Nkemere, Co-Founder and Director of Strategy, Enlightened Solutions; Bethany Studenic, LSW, Esq., Co-Founder and Managing Director, Enlightened SolutionsrnrnModerator: Indigo Bishop, Program Officer, Saint Luke's Foundation

Cleveland-Cliffs is not just a local household name in Northeast Ohio manufacturing and economic development. It is North America's largest flat-rolled steel producer and the largest supplier of automotive-grade steel in the nation. Since 2014, Lourenco Goncalves has been Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland-Cliffs. Mr. Goncalves successfully led four major company acquisitions beginning with AK Steel in March 2020, followed by the acquisition of ArcelorMittal USA in December 2020, Ferrous Processing and Trading Company in November 2021 and most recently Canadian-based Stelco Holdings Inc. in November 2024.rnrnIn 2023, Cleveland-Cliffs offered to buy Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel in a merger that would have cement Cleveland-Cliffs as the nation's largest steelmaker--bringing more jobs and opportunity to the region. Instead, U.S. Steel rejected the offer in favor of a higher bid from Japanese firm Nippon Steel. President Biden blocked the merger in January, citing national security concerns, specifically the belief that U.S. Steel should remain an American-owned company to support the domestic steel production and strengthen U.S. supply chains. President Trump has also opposed Nippon's acquisition of U.S. Steel.

The fateful year 2020 brought dramatic challenges to American cities. The COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest caused by the killing of George Floyd led to a cascade of negative media stories about cities, often politically motivated. It seemed possible that the economic and demographic gains cities had achieved over the last few decades could be lost. In fact, there has been measurable population loss in larger cities caused by changing work/life patterns and changing public perceptions about the costs and benefits of urban living.rnrnReleased in July 2024, the 38 chapters in The Case for Cities draw on the expertise of contributors from the academic, professional, and civic sectors. They argue that, when faced with these challenges, advocates for cities must make a vigorous case for cities and show how they aren't the cause of America's social, environmental, economic, and public health problems but, are rather, are the places where the solutions to those problems will be found.rnrnJoin us at the City Club as we hear from the book's authors and experts in urban planning on what is needed to promote a viable and sustainable urban resurgence.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill (HB) 250, requiring each school district and community school to adopt a cell phone policy by July 1, 2025. While schools have the flexibility to choose a policy that fits their needs, many have taken varying approaches with a broad range of impacts. The new law aims to reduce distractions in schools that lead to negative learning outcomes for students.rnrnOhio's new cell phone policy sparks debate. Proponents argue the policy will enhance learning, while opponents contend it could create safety risks. Meanwhile, schools have tightened restrictions on when and how students can use their phones. Questions remain about whether these rules are genuinely designed to improve the learning environment. This student-led forum provides a valuable opportunity to explore this complex issue.rnrnAs technology becomes more deeply integrated into everyday life, the questions arise: How should schools balance innovation with attention demands? Should schools ban phones or find ways to incorporate them into teaching more effectively? What is the policy's impact on student health? The conversation is just beginning. Students will have the chance to hear from experts about what the policy entails and, perhaps more importantly, what comes next.

Northeast Ohio businesses, organizations, and communities are already feeling the impacts of the Trump administration's executive orders on immigration. On January 20th, the Trump Administration halted refugee resettlement--stranding some refugees within hours of their scheduled travel to the US. And then on Sunday, January 26th, Cilantro Taqueria in Cleveland Heights confirmed that ICE agents took six employees of the restaurant into custody. They're reportedly being held in Geauga County with 52 other detainees. This news has shaken both undocumented and documented immigrants in the region. Additionally, Ohio legislators have also moved to block local municipalities from forming sanctuary cities.

Since 2014, the City of Cleveland has been under a consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice to address a finding that the division exhibited an unconstitutional pattern or practice of excessive force. The investigation that led to that finding was sparked by the 2012 shooting of Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams. A 23-mile car chase involving 60 police officers ended in a parking lot in East Cleveland when 13 officers fired 137 shots into a vehicle, killing both Russell and Williams. Both were unarmed.rnrnThe consent decree requires the Cleveland Division of Police to reform its policies, practices, and procedures to address accountability, use of force, crisis intervention, and more. The Cleveland Community Police Commission (CPC) was also established at this time, bringing 13 community voices into the process of police reform. The CPC's role was deepened after voters passed Issue 24 in 2021--giving the commission final say in disciplinary proceedings and policing policy police discipline cases and officer policies. The consent decree also calls on the community to be a part of the reform process through service in various groups and ongoing engagement through public forums.rnrnThe consent decree itself is broad-reaching, its work significant, and we have heard many perspectives on it over the last decade, most recently in a conversation about the legacy of Tamir Rice. Join us to hear about progress made, opportunities ahead, and challenges still to overcome from two of the leaders tasked with implementing the reforms: Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd, and Dr. Leigh Anderson, Executive Director of the Mayor's Police Accountability Team.

Through February, the stage production of Fat Ham will premiere at the Cleveland Play House. It's a cleverly hilarious retelling of William Shakespeare's Hamlet through the eyes of "Juicy," a Southern Black mama's boy during a backyard cookout. It unapologetically centers Black joy and flips masculinity on its head. For many, the play's premise might cause a casual reader to double-take. Yet, the production won the 2022 Pulitzer Prize winner for drama and was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Play. This summer, England's Royal Shakespeare Company itself will stage the European premiere.rnrnrnFrom Hollywood film to literature and theatre productions--contemporary spins on classics are not a new concept. These reinterpretations often reach new audiences, create new models for artistic production, and create space for entire communities.

More than a century of civil rights activism reached a mountaintop with the arrival of a Black man in the Oval Office. But hopes for a unified, post-racial America were deflated when Barack Obama's presidency was met with furious opposition, and a volcanic new movement-a second civil rights movement-began to erupt.rnrnNew Prize for These Eyes is a follow up to his bestselling novel Eyes on the Prize, which accompanied the PBS series of the same name. In his new book, Williams outlines what fires, furies, and frustrations distinguish this 21st century movement from its predecessor and brilliantly traces the arc of this new civil rights era--from Obama to Charlottesville to January 6th.rnrnToday's movement is dealing with new realities. With demographic changes and a social media savvy generation, activists are making history in a new economic and cultural landscape. In an interview with Fox News, Williams said, "I hope that all Americans, all people in this country will be able to say after they read this book, 'Oh my gosh. I am a historic figure.' And see themselves as actors in this moment of creating American history."rnrnJuan Williams is a prizewinning journalist and historian and the author of numerous books. Williams worked for The Washington Post as a celebrated national political correspondent, White House correspondent, and editorial writer. He has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Ebony. He is currently the Senior Political Analyst for Fox News Channel and a columnist for The Hill.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that about one out of every eight kids in America grows up in homes with a substance use problem. And according to the CDC, Fentanyl was responsible for nearly 70% of drug overdose deaths in 2022. Now, the film INHERITANCE places us all on the frontlines of the opioid crisis right here in Ohio.rnrnFilmed over 11 years, INHERITANCE explores the underlying causes of the opioid epidemic in America through the life of one boy and five generations of his extended family. Curtis, a bright and hopeful 12-year-old, grows up in rural Appalachia surrounded by love and struggle while every adult in his family - parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins - battle addiction. Curtis's America is a country where people and communities are struggling with an epidemic of substance use disorder, joblessness, poverty, and a deteriorating sense of belonging. Can Curtis break the cycle of addiction that has plagued his family for generations?

On November 6, 2023, Stephen Vogt was named the 45th manager of the Cleveland Guardians. He joined the club just two years after finishing his major league career and stepping into the seemingly unfillable shoes of Terry Francona. At the start, Vogt inherited the youngest roster in the MLB, and saw the loss of star pitcher Shane Bieber in the first week due to an elbow injury. By all accounts, the odds were stacked against him.rnrnBut what came next ended up being one of the Guardians best seasons in history, backed by the best bullpen in the majors, and an American League Central Division title for Cleveland. And dare we say it-just three wins shy of a World Series appearance.rnrnBut that wasn't enough. In November 2024, Vogt was named the 2024 American League Manager of the Year-the fifth youngest manager to win the award after receiving a resounding 27 of the 30 first place votes. He is the fastest person to go from player to Manager of the Year in the award's history. His success is credited to many things, but in particular, Vogt brings a new style of leadership and organizational culture that centers on humility, humor, and even passing the "aux cord."

Successful companies innovate every day and create products and value for their customers. Efforts to build a robust workforce are no different. Here in Northeast Ohio, manufacturing leaders are innovating, testing, and scaling new ways to solve their talent needs. Through innovative workforce partnerships, changing policies, and adjusting conditions to be more inclusive, these companies are producing results. Currently, strategies are underway to remove barriers to employment, increase coaching, and provide necessary support for non-native English speakers, for example.rnrnAs onshoring heats up and manufacturers shift their supply chains closer to home, talent competition - and the need for innovation - will be stronger than ever. Is Northeast Ohio ready?rnrnPanelistsrnPete AccortirnPresident, Talan ProductsrnrnGeoff LipneviciusrnSenior Manager, Workforce Development, The Lincoln Electric CompanyrnrnDalithia C. Smith, SPHR, SHRM-SCPrnSVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, Oatey CornrnStaci WamplerrnChief Business Solutions Officer, Towards EmploymentrnrnModeratorrnGlenn ForbesrnHost/Producer, Ideastream Public Media

Three years after moving into the national spotlight as CEO of YWCA USA, Margaret Mitchell is undoubtedly still considered a local hero right here in Northeast Ohio. Recognized for her successful efforts to declare racism a public health crisis in Cleveland and Ohio, Margaret Mitchell's leadership has left an indelible mark on the fight to build a nation where all women and girls can thrive.rnrnToday, she leads the YWCA USA--a national organization with 194 local associations across the United States, including the YWCA of Greater Cleveland. It is one of the oldest and largest women's organizations in the nation, serving over 1 million women, girls, and their families, and has been at the forefront of the most pressing social movements for over 160 years. The YWCA also has an international arm, World YWCA, a global movement working for women's empowerment, leadership, and rights in more than 120 countries.rnrnAs we move into MLK Day weekend and look to Inauguration Day, join us as Margaret Mitchell returns to Cleveland and the City Club stage to underline the progress made and work ahead to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

After 15 years of leading Esperanza Inc. during its first 40 years of service, Victor Ruiz announced earlier this year he will be stepping down. Together with the board, he stated, "Now is the time to introduce a fresh perspective and new ideas to lead the way toward Esperanza's next chapter." Located on Cleveland's West Side, Esperanza aims to improve the lives of Latino youth and their families through education. Northeast Ohio also has one of the fastest growing Hispanic and Latino populations, and with that, increased needs for services and opportunities.rnrnRuiz came to Cleveland 42 years ago from Puerto Rico, and during his tenure at Esperanza, he helped transform the lives of thousands of Northeast Ohio families. Ruiz is also a champion of Latino and Hispanic representation and held numerous leadership roles in the community. He served as chairman of the board of trustees for Cuyahoga Community College; sits on the editorial board of The Plain Dealer and Cleveland.com; and was a member of Cuyahoga County Executive-elect Chris Ronayne's transition team.

The future of our downtown lakefront has always been a topic of conversation. In fact, studies as early as 1903 hoped to find solutions that enhanced our north shore. Over the decades, connectivity, access, as well as the challenge of Burke Lakefront Airport all have remained top concerns. Now, the decision by Haslam Sports Group to move the Cleveland Browns to the western suburbs has raised questions about the move's impact on the City's much-anticipated Lakefront Master Plan, local businesses, tourism, and more. What opportunities have opened up, and what are the challenges that lie ahead as we envision a lakefront for all?

When thinking of entrepreneurs who serve as community champions, Connie Hill-Johnson and Kevin Johnson take this role to another level. Their life-long investments in economic development, volunteer efforts, and philanthropic contributions have left an indelible mark on Northeast Ohio. What can we learn from two of Cleveland's biggest champions on the progress made and work yet to be done--particularly concerning BIPOC entrepreneurship and leadership?rnrnConnie Hill-Johnson has been the Owner and Managing Director of Visiting Angels Senior Home Care for more than 20 years; and since 2022, Connie has served as the Chair of the Board of The Cleveland Foundation--the first Black woman elected to the position. She also served as co-chair of the successful city-wide Cleveland Reads campaign with the Cleveland Public Library.rnrnKevin Johnson is Managing Partner at NexGen Interactive, LLC, a technology consultancy. He has held countless roles over the years in areas of engineering, IT, and management here in Northeast Ohio and across the globe.rnrnTogether, Connie and Kevin were instrumental in producing The Soul of Philanthropy Cleveland (TSOPCLE) in 2019 and also launched the Cleveland Black Equity and Humanity Fund.

Trauma surgeon and professor Dr. Brian H. Williams has seen it all: gunshot wounds, stabbings, and traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Williams is also an Air Force Academy graduate, a Harvard-trained physician, a former congressional health policy advisor, and a nationally recognized leader at the intersection of public policy and structural racism, gun violence, and health equity. He has treated gun violence victims for more than two decades.rnrnIn his new book The Bodies Keep Coming, Williams ushers us into the trauma bay, where the wounds of a national emergency amass. He draws a through line between white supremacy, gun violence, and the bodies he tries to revive, and he trains his surgeon's gaze on the structural ills that manifest themselves in the bodies of his patients.rnrnWilliams has also served as a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellow at the National Academy of Medicine and as a professor of trauma and acute care surgery at the University of Chicago Medicine. Williams and his work have been featured in outlets like the Chicago Tribune, Dallas Morning News, CNN, and Newsweek.

According to the Ohio Department of Health, the infant mortality rate not only serves as a key indicator of maternal and infant health but is also an important measure of the health status of a whole community.rnrnAnd this year at the Cleveland International Film Festival, a documentary film showcasing nurses' heroic efforts to support mothers and babies won the coveted audience choice award. American Delivery certainly hit home. The City of Cleveland has one of the worst maternal and infant mortality rates in the developed world, especially among women and infants of color. Yet, to support women and babies, we must go beyond healthcare delivery. Public-private coalitions like First Year Cleveland are rising to the challenge, building a community movement that identifies causes and develops sustainable, system-driven solutions.rnrnJoin the City Club as we hear from First Year Cleveland's Angela Newman-White and American Delivery film director Carolyn Jones on the maternal and infant vitality movement, and how we can ensure all mothers and babies are guaranteed healthy beginnings.

It has been roughly 40 years since the onset of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in our country, and thanks to extraordinary advances in antiretroviral therapy and support services, survivors are now living long, healthy lives. For this reason, more than half of people diagnosed with HIV in the United States are aged 50 and older. Now, researchers, doctors, and patients are once again facing questions with uncertain answers on what to expect from HIV/AIDS in aging bodies.

When Secretary Pete Buttigieg first joined us at the City Club in 2019, he was "Mayor Pete" of South Bend, Indiana, and already emerged as one of the nation's most visionary politicians. In 2021, he was sworn in as the nation's 19th Secretary of Transportation and is the first openly gay person confirmed to serve in a president's Cabinet. During his tenure as Secretary, he has worked to achieve organizational excellence in the department's operations, and his focus as Secretary has been to deliver the world's leading transportation system for the American people and economy.rnrnIn his first year at the Department, he prioritized supporting the development and passage of President Biden's signature Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Since the law's passage, Secretary Buttigieg and his team have focused on effectively delivering the investments provided by this legislation, enabling the most significant improvements in U.S. transportation infrastructure in over half a century.rnrnSecretary Buttigieg served for seven years as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, taking a leave of absence from the mayor's office for a deployment to Afghanistan in 2014. He lives in Traverse City, MI with his husband Chasten, their two children, Gus and Penelope, and their dog.

Beth M. Hammack is the president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, one of 12 regional Reserve Banks in the Federal Reserve System. She began her term on August 21, 2024. In this capacity, she participates in the formulation of US monetary policy and oversees 1,100 employees in the Bank's Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh offices who conduct economic research, supervise banking institutions, and provide payment services to commercial banks and the US government. Prior to her appointment as Cleveland Fed president, she was cohead of the global financing group at Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and a member of the management committee.

In 1982, Ari Weinzweig, along with his partner Paul Saginaw, founded Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor with a $20,000 bank loan, a Russian History degree from the University of Michigan, four years of experience washing dishes, cooking and managing in restaurant kitchens and chutzpah from his hometown of Chicago. They opened the doors with 2 employees, a small selection of specialty foods, and exceptional sandwiches.rnrnToday, Zingerman's Delicatessen is a nationally renowned food icon and the Zingerman's Community of Businesses has grown to 11 businesses with over 750 employees and over $65 million in annual revenue. Ari Weinzweig is also a prolific writer. His most recent publications are the first four of his six book series Zingerman's Guide to Good Leading.rnrnThe conversation will be moderated by New York Times bestselling author Daniel Coyle. Coyle's book The Culture Code was named Best Business Book of the Year by Bloomberg, BookPal, and Business Insider. Coyle has served as an advisor to many high-performing organizations, including the Navy SEALs, Microsoft, Google, and the Cleveland Guardians.

On November 22, 2014, just after 3:30 in the afternoon, a 12-year-old boy was shot by a police officer outside of the Cudell Recreation Center. Tamir Rice had been playing with a toy gun, an airsoft replica that was missing the telltale orange tip. The officer shot Rice twice less than two seconds after getting out of the police cruiser which had not even come to a complete stop. Rice died from his wounds the following day.rnrnThis tragedy was seen by many to be part of an ongoing pattern of excessive force by the Cleveland Division of Police. In the intervening years, many reform efforts, including a consent decree and a new citizen-led oversight commission, have been attempted and implemented to not only reduce violence but also improve relations between police and the communities they serve.

At a time when the world seems fraught with polarization and violence, it's important to pause and witness the resiliency and solidarity of communities who are committed to working together to address poverty, injustices, inequality, and many other disparities.rnrnFounded in 1974, as a response to the predominate mission model at the time, IPM was as groundbreaking then as it is today. A global organization based right here in Northeast Ohio, IPM is the premier, intersectional and multi-faith organization that nurtures & affirms justice, solidarity, and peace.rnrnAnyang' Nyong'o, the current Governor of Kisumu County, in the Republic of Kenya, is known by many as the Mandela of Kenya. He has a long list of exceptional political accomplishments focusing on education, economic development, health, and social services. Along with his wife Dorothy Nyong'o, who is incredibly remarkable as the First Lady of Kisumu, Kenya and Founding and Managing Trustee of the African Cancer Foundation. Dorothy also serves as a member of IPM's International Executive Board and Regional Vice-Chair for Sub-Saharan Africa. Both are the parents of five children, including Oscar award-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o.

In the 2nd youth led forum of the year, we will focus on how racial inequities in education are deeply entrenched in the American school system, affecting not just individual students but the broader landscape of educational achievement and opportunity.rnrnResearch shows that schools with higher concentrations of students from marginalized racial and ethnic groups are more likely to experience underfunding, overcrowded classrooms, and limited access to advanced coursework and resources. This systemic inequality can contribute to lower graduation rates and diminished college and career readiness across the board, impacting the ability of schools to produce well-rounded, critical-thinking scholars.rnrnAccording to a report by the U.S. Department of Education, schools serving predominantly minority students receive roughly $23 billion less in funding each year than those serving predominantly white students. These disparities not only hinder the academic potential of individual students but also compromise the overall quality of education in America, limiting the nation's ability to cultivate diverse, informed, and capable leaders for the future.rnrnThis forum will dive into the root causes of these inequities, their impact on students of all backgrounds, and what can be done to create a more equitable and inclusive educational system.