How to Turn Illness into Advocacy with Ohio State Representative Dontavius Jarrells

Recorded at the NewDEAL Forum Ideas Summit in Atlanta, GA, this week’s special episode features co-host Ryan Coonerty in conversation with Ohio House Assistant Minority Leader Dontavius Jarrells. Rep. Jarrells speaks candidly about his childhood experience with  lead poisoning, channeling his identity as a survivor of the devastating illness into advocacy as he works to pass comprehensive laws to reduce children’s lead exposure through the legislature. He also talks about the difficulties of serving in a Democratic superminority, how he draws on his experiences growing up in Cleveland’s Hough neighborhood to advocate for underserved communities, and the personal cost of public service. Jarrells also talks about his legislative priorities and the seven laws he passed since being elected in 2020 despite the doubts from naysayers. Tune in to learn about the values that keep Rep. Jarrells’ in the fight even at the bleakest of times.

• [01:04] Introduction to and background on Ohio State Representative Dontavius Jarrells.

• [03:15] Fulfilling experiences that expanded his perspective to want to create change.

• [06:54] Three buckets in which Dontavius thinks of his role in the legislature.

• [09:10] The heart of his work in the legislature.

• [10:39] How he came to pass seven laws since being elected in 2020.

• [13:56] What it meant for Ohio to have Issue One on the ballot recently.

• [16:18] Factors that keep Dontavius in the fight.

• [18:17] How he motivates others to stay positive about the change the government can bring.

• [20:45] His approach to dedicating his time between sessions and over the next decade.

• [23:07] Contributing to the chain of excellence.