“…it’s a call to meet a moment head-on. We—all of my intersections—must be seen, heard, and recognized, not sidelined or forgotten, through the next four years and beyond.”

–Densil P.

My adult life truly began when I came to Ohio for college. For eight years, the greater Columbus area was my home, shaping my perspective and values. In 2006, I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where I deepened my engagement with LGBTQ+ initiatives, focusing on equal rights and safe schools. While I lived there, I returned to Columbus regularly—for work, to visit my adopted Ohio family, and to witness the city’s remarkable evolution. In 2012, I made the decision to return and call Columbus home, planting roots that have grown deep in this community.

I Am a First-Generation College Graduate.

On my wall hang several diplomas: my bachelor’s degree from Kenyon College, my MBA, my high school diploma, and my mother’s GED. These represent hard work and determination, but they also remind me of disparities in opportunity. My mother earned her GED years after leaving Jamaica and bringing her children to America in search of a better life. Her perseverance inspires me daily and informs my belief in the transformative power of education.

I believe a strong educational foundation enables young people to achieve their dreams. Programs like I Know I Can and City Year Columbus are essential models, and I am committed to advocating for expanded funding and resources to sustain and enhance these initiatives. Every Columbus resident deserves access to the opportunities that education can provide. [Learn more about Densil’s Focus Areas]

I Am a Naturalized American.

When my mother left Jamaica, she dreamed of a better life for us, and that dream has guided my own journey. While I’ve traveled diverse roads, they’ve all been purposeful, leading me to opportunities to create change and expand access to the opportunities that make our nation great. My Caribbean identity has instilled in me a deep understanding of cultural competence and inclusion, equipping me to navigate the social and economic disparities I’ve encountered.

In 2008, I became a U.S. citizen, inspired by the democratic process and the faith Americans place in the ideals of this great nation. This moment solidified my commitment to contributing to our democracy and to ensuring its promises are fulfilled for all. I am a proud American citizen who feels a call to participate more directly in its democratic goals.

I Am Columbus.

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In this place I launched myself out into the world. It was in this place that I developed great friendships; which have evolved into new definitions of family. It was here that I chose to return to buy my first house and today I am proud to call this city home. It is here that my roots will continue to grow strong and my future will become interwind as deep as my past, and we, the City and I, will be better for it.

As Columbus evolves, I am committed to contributing to its growth as a great American city—one where every resident feels valued and represented. It would be my honor to serve the citizens of this city I call home. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Columbus.

-d-

Your Attention Please: Season 2, Episode 2 (Full Episode) • Hulu @ 10:25

Focus Areas

“I am committed to fostering a community that thrives on inclusivity, equity, and sustainable growth.”

–Densil Porteous

Inclusive Economic Growth & Support for Local Entrepreneurs

  • Empowering Small and Minority-Owned Businesses: I will advocate for accessible micro-grants, mentorship programs, and partnerships with local venture firms to empower diverse businesses and startups.
  • Community-Centered Development: I am committed to promoting development policies that prevent displacement, enhance infrastructure, and prioritize projects offering a variety of housing options and quality local employment opportunities.

Affordable & Workforce Housing

  • Expanding Housing Options: I will champion sustainable initiatives to increase both affordable and workforce housing, ensuring that residents across all income levels have access to quality homes within their communities.
  • Advocating for Tenant Rights: I support policies that strengthen tenant protections, combat housing discrimination, and encourage fair rental practices to foster a secure living environment.

Public Safety & Community Relations

  • Implementing Community-Based Safety Solutions: I will work to increase funding for mental health professionals, social workers, and mediation specialists to collaborate with law enforcement, promoting safety and humane treatment for all residents.
  • Enhancing Police Accountability and Reform: I will advocate for measures such as body camera mandates, independent oversight, and de-escalation training to build trust between the community and law enforcement.

Environmental Justice & Sustainability

  • Expanding Green Spaces and Urban Revitalization: I aim to preserve and develop green spaces, encourage urban micro-farming, and create accessible parks to promote a healthier, more connected community.
  • Promoting Environmental Equity: I will advocate for cleaner public spaces, robust waste management, infrastructure upgrades, and affordable, eco-friendly public transportation options to ensure sustainability and equity.

Intersectional Health & Social Services

  • Increasing Access to Mental Health Services: I will champion the expansion of affordable and accessible mental health resources, with a focus on supporting LGBTQ+ and minority communities.
  • Advocating for Healthcare Equity: I am dedicated to ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare by partnering with local health organizations to improve outreach and preventive care initiatives.

Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights & Diversity

  • Championing LGBTQ+ Rights: I will support initiatives that create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ communities, including youth support programs, workplace protections, and inclusive community events.
  • Promoting Intersectional Policy Approaches: I will push for policies that address the interconnected challenges of race, sexuality, and socioeconomics, ensuring vulnerable populations are prioritized in decision-making.

Strengthening Community & Cultural Identity

  • Supporting Cultural Events and Spaces: I will back diverse cultural events and preserve Columbus’s artistic heritage to boost tourism, economic activity, and community pride.
  • Encouraging Civic Engagement and Transparent Governance: I am committed to transparency and will actively seek community feedback, establishing regular “Community Council” meetings to foster open dialogue and keep residents informed.

Together, we can build a Columbus that reflects our shared values and aspirations.