Meet the elected officials bringing together their collective power and authority to create a future where Pittsburgh African American communities can thrive.
Olivia "Liv" Bennett
County Councilwoman
Councilwoman "Liv": Bennett is honored to serve them in this role and seeks to represent all of the diverse folks within her district. Liv’s work on Council includes passing legislation banning conversion therapy, banning hair discrimination, declaring Juneteenth a Countywide paid holiday and declaring racism as a public health crisis.
Rev. Ricky Burgess
City Councilman
Councilman Rev. Ricky Burgess has a strong belief in the community of Pittsburgh and in the greater community he serves. For the past 32 years, Rev. Burgess has been pastor of the Nazarene Baptist Church. In that capacity, he has served with faithful distinction with a firm belief in the greater power that guides and offers hope for us all.
Ed Gainey
PA State Representative
State Representative Ed Gainey brings new leadership and a new vision to the neighborhoods that make up the 24th Legislative District. His legislative priorities are labor issues, working-class families, transportation, education, community development and enhancement.
Daniel Lavelle
City Councilman
Daniel Lavelle is the City Councilman for the 6th District of the City of Pittsburgh which encompasses: Chateau, California-Kirkbride, Central Northside, Downtown, Fineview, the Hill District, Manchester, Mexican War Streets, Perry North and South, Uptown and parts of West and South Oakland.
Jake Wheatley
PA State Representative
Rep. Jake Wheatley Jr., D-Allegheny, a recognized United States Marine combat veteran of Operation Desert Storm who received the Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal and the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, is a proud resident of the City of Pittsburgh.
DeWitt Walton
County Councilman
Born in Mississippi and reared in Gary, IN by activist parents, DeWitt Walton is a 25-year employee of the United Steelworkers (USW) and is currently assigned to the Civil & Human Rights department. He has served as an Organizer, Strategic Campaigner and as an Assistant to the International President.