Davida Russell for State Representative

I made a brief stop at the Juneteenth celebration held at the Caldonia Culture Center, owned by Joyce Dixon, in my community, and was pleased to see a great turnout. The event organizers did a great job! Now back home to get off that knee. Had to make a brief stop to support my community.

Okay, one day of no twist. Hair up, hair down to much work! Back to twist tomorrow 😂😂

Although I am unable to participate in all of the Juneteenth celebrations taking place across the city due to a fall that injured my knee, I paused today to celebrate Juneteenth at home and reflect on its meaning.

Juneteenth commemorates the day when the last enslaved African Americans learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. It is a celebration of liberation, resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of a people who never gave up hope.

As we celebrate the American freedom won through sacrifice and struggle, we must also ask ourselves: Are we truly free? Freedom is more than the absence of chains. It is access to quality education, affordable healthcare, economic opportunity, safe communities, equal justice, and the right for every person to live with dignity and respect.

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is both a destination and a journey. It challenges us to honor those who came before us by continuing the work they began. While we celebrate the progress that has been made, we must remain committed to breaking down the barriers that still exist and ensuring that future generations inherit a more just and equitable society.

Today, I celebrate the courage of our ancestors, the strength of our communities, and the promise of a brighter future. May we never forget their sacrifices, may we cherish the freedoms we enjoy, and may we continue working together to make liberty and justice a reality for all.

Happy Juneteenth. Let us celebrate, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing pursuit of freedom. ❤️davidarussell

A great and gentle man, my dear friend Mallory Jackson, has been called home to rest in the loving arms of the Lord. I am deeply saddened and overwhelmed by his unexpected passing. Mallory was a true friend, a kind soul, and a source of encouragement to so many. His presence, wisdom, and friendship will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Please keep his family, friends, and loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time. May he rest in eternal peace. ❤️🙏🏾

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of our brother, Mallory Jackson, a dedicated former Field Representative for Laborers’ Local 860. Mallory was a pillar of our union family for decades. He began his journey with Local 860 as a laborer at just 19 years old. His hard work and passion for our members led him to become a Field Representative in 2005. He fiercely protected and served our brotherhood in that role until his retirement in 2024. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Liz, family, friends, and everyone who had the honor of working alongside him. Rest in peace, Mallory.

I'm so excited !

Noble road neighbors, we have a reason to celebrate. The hillside dairy is finally coming down, marking a new beginning for our community. Demolition started this morning at 9 AM, and it will take about two weeks to complete. In two weeks, we will have a clean slate, congratulations to us. Thank you, Mayor Petras and the Cleveland Heights staff for your tireless efforts. Thank you to State Senator Sandra Williams for being a beacon of hope and notifying me of the brown field grants to tear down this building when I first got on council.

I’m honored to be endorsed by the Cleveland Heights Teachers Union for your confidence, dedication and commitment to my campaign grounded in service and for the people. Thank you!

“Happy Pride Month, Ohio! As your State Representative candidate, I stand proudly with our LGBTQ+ community, advocating for equality, acceptance, and love for all. Together, we can create a future where everyone can live authentically and without fear. Let’s celebrate our diversity and continue the fight for justice and inclusion!”

ENDORSEMENT ALERT! I am very honored and proud to announce that I have earned the endorsement of SEIU District 1199 in my campaign for Ohio House District 18! SEIU District 1199 represents nearly 25,000 healthcare, social service and public sector workers and is part of the Service Employees International Union whose 2 million members make it the largest union of health care workers and the fastest growing union in the world.

Thank you President Becky Williams and SEIU 1199 leaders.

As most of you know, I slipped and fell badly, tearing my meniscus and bruising a bone in my left knee. Reflecting on the campaign trail, I campaigned requiring the assistance of two crutches initially, which later reducing to one crutch, a cane, and a knee brace. Despite the primary election's conclusion, I've remained committed to campaigning without respite, contrary to my doctor's advice. Now, I'm compelled to adhere to medical orders and grant my knee the necessary rest to facilitate healing and prepare for the general election for State Representative of House District 18. I extend my gratitude to everyone who has provided support, particularly my sister-in-law, who has been instrumental in navigating airports and providing assistance. To the residents and individuals who have shown kindness during my mobility challenges, I offer my sincerest appreciation. As I temporarily step back to prioritize my knee recovery, I will be offline for a moment. Thank you for your understanding and support. As my doctor aptly put it, 'It's time to pause and take care of my knee; it's the only one I have, and I'm desperately trying to avoid surgery!' As I take care of my knee to continue my journey, I will be watching, listening, and learning.

Last stop! Hanging out with the Democrats at the Democratic Executive Committee precinct, committee members reelect Chairman Dave Brock and Vice Chair Juanita Brent, Secretary Mayor Nakeshia Nickerson, and long-term Treasurer Rudy. Congratulations to the Democratic leadership team on being reelected, along with all the precinct committee members. Congratulations! All of this took place in the dark. Congratulations to everyone for their spirit in the light of no lights; love was in the air.