In the aftermath of the 1969 Cuyahoga River fire, community members and local political leaders — including Mayor Carl Stokes, the first black mayor of a major American city — worked together to heal Cleveland’s waterways. They built the lasting change needed to protect people, ensure a safe environment for our children, and solve complex environmental problems through collaboration.
OEC’s work in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County is focused on advancing local policies and projects to protect the environment and health of communities by building meaningful relationships with elected leaders and community partners. Our work has resulted in the co-creation of the Cleveland and Cuyahoga Environmental Policy Platforms in 2021 and 2022, which have spurred progress on some of the region’s most pressing environmental issues — from reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to enhancing tree canopy, to eliminating the threat of lead poisoning. This work is rooted in collaboration with local advocates and community partners. The OEC is proud to facilitate conversations that drive progress and connection between community members and decision-makers.
Together, we are working for a healthier, more equitable future for all who call the region home.
The Latest in Cleveland + Cuyahoga County
Climate Justice for All
We went live with a panel of local leaders talking about climate justice.
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Key Staff
Brian Siggers
Cleveland Metro Advocacy Director
Brian D. Siggers serves as the OEC’s Cleveland Metro Advocacy Director. Brian joins the OEC after years of experience in political consulting, with extensive work in working on political campaigns at the local, state and federal levels. His background is in grassroots organizing and advocacy, where he has helped increase voter education, turnout, and participation. Brian is a proud graduate of Ohio University where he earned his degree in Political Science. Brian is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, and the NAACP of Cleveland.
