Human Rights Organizations in Columbus, OH

Based in Columbus, Ohio, the Coalition of Labor Union Women Central Ohio Chapter represents a vital part of a national movement that has championed union women since its founding in 1974. This nonpartisan organization unites women across the labor movement to tackle shared challenges and develop meaningful action programs rooted in the labor movement's core values. The chapter embodies four foundational objectives adopted at CLUW's Chicago convention: empowering women to lead at every level of union work, organizing previously unorganized workers, advancing affirmative action and workplace justice, and expanding women's voice in political and legislative advocacy. Members speak passionately for equal pay, safe workplaces, affordable healthcare, quality childcare and elder care, and freedom from harassment and violence at work. What sets CLUW apart is its unique focus on the intersection of union membership and women's rights—creating space where women can build solidarity, develop leadership skills, and drive change within their unions and communities. The Central Ohio Chapter welcomes union women and advocates who believe in collective action and social change. Through member resources, networking events, committees, and legislative advocacy, CLUW creates pathways for women to participate meaningfully in the labor movement while addressing the economic and social challenges that affect working families throughout Columbus and beyond.

Since 1981, Stonewall Columbus has stood as a beacon of visibility, inclusion, and connection for the LGBTQ+ community in Columbus, OH. What began as Stonewall Union with a mission to increase visibility and acceptance of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community has evolved into a comprehensive organization serving the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ rainbow. The organization's mission remains clear: increase visibility, inclusion, and connection for the LGBTQ+ community so that all can thrive. Stonewall Columbus operates from five core values—History, Visibility, Inclusion, Connection, and Accountability—that guide every program and initiative. The organization prioritizes the most vulnerable members of the community, recognizing what it means to be left out and committed to ensuring no one is left behind. As Columbus has transformed into one of the nation's most LGBTQ-friendly cities, Stonewall Columbus has grown alongside it, deepening its commitment to serve individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, sex, age, race, color, national origin, religion, military status, familial status, or disability. The Stonewall Center at 1160 North High Street serves as a vital gathering place where community members find not just services but genuine connection. With a vision of an Ohio where every LGBTQ+ individual is visible, included, and connected, leading fulfilling lives without fear of discrimination, Stonewall Columbus continues building its future brick by brick, honoring its history while forging pathways toward a thriving community in Central Ohio.

Founded locally in Columbus, OH in September 2011, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Central Ohio Chapter emerged from the vision of 35 African American women representing communities across Franklin, Fairfield, Licking, and Delaware counties. These founding members united around a shared commitment to the national organization's mission, which began in 1981 to establish a leadership forum for Black women. The chapter represents a continuation of this legacy of advocacy and empowerment, building on the groundwork laid by national pioneers like Jewell Jackson McCabe, the organization's first national president. At its heart, the Central Ohio Chapter is driven by a mission to advocate on behalf of Black women and girls, promoting leadership development and gender equity in health, education, and economic empowerment. The organization's values—gender equity, inclusion, respect, racial and social justice, integrity, accountability, economic empowerment, and collaboration—guide every initiative and decision. By bringing together women from diverse professional backgrounds and life experiences across Central Ohio, the chapter creates a powerful community of support, mentorship, and collective action. Members benefit from meaningful relationships with peers who understand the unique intersections of race and gender, while contributing their talents to initiatives that benefit the broader Columbus community. The chapter's commitment to collaboration and accountability ensures that its work remains grounded in the real needs and aspirations of Black women and girls throughout the region.

Based in Columbus, OH, Blacks In Technology Foundation operates as the official non-profit organization dedicated to addressing systemic underrepresentation of Black workers throughout the technology industry. The organization's mission is to "stomp the divide" between Black tech workers and effect meaningful change in an industry that has historically lacked parity with respect to Black employees and entrepreneurs. Recognizing that Black professionals often find themselves isolated as the only Black person in their department or on their team, the foundation works to level the playing field through comprehensive training, education, networking, and mentorship opportunities. Led by experienced technology and education professionals with lifelong careers in the industry, Blacks In Technology Foundation operates with core values of trust and transparency. The organization partners with allies, sponsors, and supporters throughout the Columbus community and globally to expand access to resources and opportunities. With a decade-long track record of impact, the foundation has established itself as a trusted resource for Black technologists seeking community connection, professional development, and visibility. The organization's commitment extends beyond individual career advancement to influence systemic change across the technology sector, particularly addressing the documented underrepresentation of Black workers in top Silicon Valley companies and throughout the broader tech ecosystem. Through its annual BITCON conference and ongoing community initiatives, Blacks In Technology Foundation continues building a blueprint for world-class technical excellence and innovation.