The Freedom ROC is a Black-led, statewide organization in Ohio devoted to advancing racial and economic justice by cultivating informed, capable citizens and strengthening the civic institutions that sustain democratic self-governance. Rooted in grassroots organizing and coalition-building, our work centers the voices and leadership of people most directly impacted by systemic inequity, ensuring they are not only participants in civic life, but stewards of their communities’ future.

In 2026, The Freedom BLOC will directly contact approximately 80,000 voters through door-to-door canvassing, phone outreach, mail, and digital communications, with a primary emphasis on in-person conversations. The field program will conduct an estimated 175,000 door knocks across targeted precincts, prioritizing low-turnout areas in Wards 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10 while maintaining strong performance in high-turnout precincts. 5,000 new registered voters with comprehensive follow-up, 175,000 doors knocked across targeted precincts, 80,000 voters reached through direct relational contact, expanded base presence in three new wards. Additionally, we will intentionally expand our base by bringing at least 10,000 voters.

Successfully implemented a new “registration year equals voter year” model, providing follow-up door knocks and mailers to all newly registered voters, resulting in increased voter turnout across all of our target wards and movement towards closing the gap between registration and participation. Expanded civic education and leadership development efforts, with BLOC University 2025 enrollment reaching 152 total participants and 86 graduates.

Freedom ROC is focused on building Black grassroots community power will train and empower Black leaders to register voters through hotspot canvassing, doors, events, BLOC parties and concerts in Akron, Canton, Youngstown, Warren counties.

To create systemic change that leads to a more equitable society by uplifting the voices of directly impacted Black people that allows us to build Black grassroots community political power.