Delete WardApr 17, 2025
Democracy Day was passed by Cleveland City Council on Dec. 5, 2016. The ordinance establishing the day (1015-16) calls for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution declaring that, “Only human beings, not corporations, are legal persons with Constitutional rights;” and “Money is not equivalent to speech, and, therefore, regulating political contributions and spending does not equate to limiting political speech.”
Observed every two years, Democracy Day features a public hearing where citizens are invited to share testimony on the influence of corporate, union, PAC, and super PAC contributions on our political system. It is a platform for residents to express their opposition to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Citizens United and to advocate for reforms that restore the democratic voice of the people.
This year’s hearing will occur on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., in the Mercedes Committee Room (217) in Cleveland City Hall, 601 Lakeside Ave. Parking will be free in the upper lot of the garage behind City Hall. Public speaker sign-in begins at 4:45 p.m.
The hearing’s purpose, as outlined in the ordinance, is to explore how corporate influence and the role of big money in politics affect Cleveland, Ohio, and the nation. Community members are encouraged to participate and share their views. Councilman Kris Harsh will moderate the event.
Speakers will be given up to 5 minutes to testify. All speakers must provide their name and contact information in advance. More information here.