Today we’d like to introduce you to Shayla L Davis
Hi Shayla L, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into public service didn’t begin with an official title but with a deep-rooted commitment to serve my community. Growing up, I watched my father—a tireless advocate for equity and justice—stand up for people who often didn’t have a voice. That experience left a lasting impression on me and planted the seed for the work I do today.
After years in public administration, I had the honor of being elected both as a State Representative and as a Councilwoman. These roles gave me an inside look at how decisions get made and, more importantly, how policies directly affect people’s everyday lives. I’ve always felt a deep sense of duty to ensure that Black and marginalized communities are not left behind when it comes to those decisions.
Today, as the President and CEO of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (OLBCF), I get to lead an organization that is fully focused on creating real change—by pushing for policies that dismantle systemic barriers and provide more opportunities for Black communities across the state. My purpose remains clear: I’m here to fight for equity and create a future where everyone, no matter where they come from, has the chance to thrive.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I am hasn’t been smooth. Being the only woman on council and one of two Black members came with its own set of challenges. There were moments when I felt like I was the lone voice pushing for equity or trying to move initiatives forward that others weren’t ready to accept. As a Black woman navigating my career in politics, law, and public service, I’ve often found myself as one of the few—or sometimes the only—Black woman in the room, standing up for issues that deeply matter to my community. It’s a constant challenge to break through barriers while staying true to who I am and what I represent.
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that, sometimes, the very people you expect to support you are the ones who try to tear you down. In these moments, having a strong sense of self-worth has been crucial. I’ve had to remain grounded in my values and my purpose, reminding myself that I am not just here to occupy a seat—I am here to live out my calling as a servant leader.
Another major challenge has been finding balance. As a public servant, I’ve often put the needs of my community and my work above my own personal needs and the needs of my family. My sense of duty and commitment to the cause has sometimes meant sacrificing time and energy that should have been spent on self-care and with my loved ones. It’s a constant struggle to balance those competing demands. But I’ve learned that being overly committed doesn’t just affect me—it affects those closest to me, and I’m working on finding that balance while still living out my purpose.
I’ve never considered myself a politician, but rather a public servant, committed to doing the work for the people I represent. Whether in an official role or through leadership rooted in community, my focus has always been on creating meaningful change. And being a servant leader is something I believe I was uniquely designed to be. My leadership is rooted in authenticity and a deep sense of responsibility to uplift my community because equity matters. When Black Ohioans are thriving, all of Ohio thrives.
Standing alone can be difficult, but I’m always reminded of my “why.” My ancestors endured far more than I ever will, and they stood firm—so I must do the same. For me, it’s not about titles or positions—it’s about living out my purpose. I know my community looks to me for representation and trusts that I will fight for them, even when the journey is hard.
My ultimate goal is to create a better future—not just for my grandson, but for the generations to come. I want to ensure that Black communities in Ohio aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. When I face challenges, I think of those who came before me and the responsibility I carry to make this a better world for those who will come after.
As James Baldwin said, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” I stand in this truth, knowing that by confronting the challenges of today, we are laying the groundwork for a future where justice, equity, and opportunity are not just goals, but realities for all.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As President and CEO of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (OLBCF) for the past year, I’ve had the tremendous privilege of leading an organization with a powerful goal: to become Ohio’s leading Black think tank, dedicated to advancing equity, justice, and opportunity for Black communities. It is a privilege to serve and lead Ohio toward a pathway that elevates the greatness Black Ohioans possess. Originally founded by the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus in 1994, OLBCF has since grown into its own nonprofit 501(c)(3), focused on shaping public policy that empowers Black Ohioans and drives long-lasting, systemic change.
Over the past year, we’ve reached key milestones that have elevated our work and positioned us as a vital resource in the fight for racial equity. In June 2024, we unveiled OLBCF’s first-ever strategic plan, providing a clear roadmap for our mission and expanding the scope of our efforts. We also secured our first-ever grant funding from the Gund Foundation and the Black Future Fund at the Cleveland Foundation. These grants are critical to helping us operationalize our vision and build our capacity as a think tank that produces data-driven solutions for the issues facing Black Ohioans.
We are also in the process of developing the State of Black Ohio Report, which will create several policy recommendations for Black state legislators to shepherd through the legislative process. This report is being developed through the lens of the community, focusing on their primary needs and ensuring that their voices are at the forefront. We will be working with organizations across the state—from rural areas to Appalachia and cities in between—leaving no community out. This is about more than just policy; it’s about amplifying community voices and ensuring that those most affected are informing the solutions.
At OLBCF, our work is multifaceted. We combine rigorous research, community input, and strategic advocacy to influence policy and shape the future for Black communities across Ohio. We serve as a bridge-builder, partnering with grassroots organizations to connect their voices to state lawmakers and ensure their needs are reflected in the policies being crafted. Our role is to empower these organizations by providing resources, tools, and pathways to advocate for meaningful change.
As a think tank, we are committed to being a trusted voice and research hub, using data to drive policy recommendations that can dismantle systemic barriers. Whether through policy briefs, research reports, or town halls, we are working to create lasting opportunities for Black communities across Ohio. We exist to elevate the great work that Black-led and Black-focused organizations across Ohio are already doing, bringing them together as we act as conveners and facilitators for collective progress.
For me, this work is deeply personal. Leading OLBCF isn’t just about heading an organization—it’s about living out my purpose as a servant leader. My mission is to ensure that the progress we make today creates opportunities for future generations. When Black Ohioans thrive, all of Ohio thrives. That’s the vision OLBCF is working toward, and it’s what motivates me every day.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about Ohio is its people. There’s a deep sense of pride and commitment in communities all across the state—from rural areas to Appalachia, to our cities. I’ve had the privilege of working with people who are dedicated to improving their communities, and that passion is inspiring. The diversity within Ohio is also something I truly appreciate. Each region has its own unique history, culture, and experiences, and I believe that diversity is our greatest strength. When we bring those voices together, Ohio has the potential to lead the nation in progressive change.
I also love the opportunity to help shape the future of Ohio through my work. Whether it’s policy advocacy or engaging with grassroots leaders, I get to be part of creating real change and ensuring that the voices of Black Ohioans are heard at every level of decision-making. It’s a privilege to be able to build bridges between communities and lawmakers, and to help elevate the greatness that already exists in Black Ohioans.
On the flip side, what frustrates me the most is the persistent inequity. Far too many communities—especially Black and marginalized ones—are still held back by systemic barriers. Whether it’s access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, or justice, those gaps are real, and they continue to perpetuate cycles of inequality. It’s frustrating to see how much work still needs to be done to close these divides.
I also dislike the divisions that sometimes exist between communities. Whether it’s racial, geographic, or economic divides, these separations hold us back from reaching our full potential as a state. But I believe that through advocacy, intentional leadership, and a focus on equity, we can break down those barriers and create a stronger, more unified Ohio.
On a personal note, I absolutely love my grandson, Rj and to travel. There’s something so energizing about exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. It always gives me a fresh perspective. And, I have to say, mint chocolate chip ice cream is my go-to treat—I’m a huge fan and never say no to a scoop!
As for dislikes, well, there are a few. The cost of food these days is just out of control—every grocery store run feels like it costs more than the last. Another thing I could do without is loud music blasting from cars. I’m all for enjoying your music, but there’s a limit—especially when you hit a certain age…lol. And, of course, being a Cleveland Browns fan comes with its own set of struggles—I’ve had to deal with the heartache of them losing continually. But hey, I’m still holding out hope!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.olbcfoundation.org
- Instagram: olbc_foundation
- Facebook: Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation
- Twitter: olbc_foundation
