Black lawmakers seek meeting with Kasich over hiring

January 28, 2011 at 12:04a.m.

COLUMBUS

Black lawmakers are demanding a meeting with Gov. John Kasich and increased hiring of minorities in his Cabinet.

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus also called on the Republican- controlled Ohio Senate to block Kasich’s appointments until they better represent the racial diversity of the state.

And members launched a new e-mail address (iamqualified@gmail.com) to provide an electronic means for Ohioans to submit applications for state positions.

“We want our fair share of seats at the table,” said Rep. Sandra Williams, a Democrat from Cleveland who is serving as caucus president.

She added later, “We will take those r sum s, walk those r sum s over to our governor to let him know that there are qualified people of color in this state. And we are demanding employment.”

Members of the caucus already have been outspoken in their criticism of Kasich, who has named more than 20 people to top positions in his administration.

None of those individuals is from minority communities, though the administration still has several posts to fill.

“Today, in 2011, it feels more like 1811 in the state of Ohio under a governor who just does not get it,” said Sen. Nina Turner, a Democrat from Cleveland. She added, “Through his actions and deeds, Gov. Kasich declared that Ohio is open for business, but if you are African-American, you need not apply. If you are Hispanic, you need not apply. If you are Asian, Indian, you need not apply.”

“I would say this: We’re 12.1 percent of the population; we want 12.1 percent of the appointments on his Cabinet,” Williams said.

Rob Nichols, a spokesman for the governor, said the administration is looking for qualified people to serve in his administration, without regard to race.

Kasich “encourages all Ohioans to apply and welcomes suggestions for qualified applicants,” Nichols said in a released statement.

“Equally important, he’s looking for candidates that share his deep commitment to reducing government spending, reforming programs and reducing taxes so we can create a jobs-friendly environment that will help improve the lives of Ohio’s families. More diversity and more inclusiveness are goals to which the administration is committed and to which we strive, just as our society strives toward them as well, and that commitment is ongoing.”