This week, the Republican National Committee (RNC) announced a new collaboration with Radio One. According to the official press release, #CommittedToCommunity: Engage, Empower, Uplift is a new initiative created to "engage and mobilize" Black voters nationwide ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The new campaign begins in Ohio and will consist of activities, forums and events within communities of color specifically where the RNC is already active and will enhance Black engagement strategy via mobile targeting and radio ad campaigns on Radio One stations in Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus.

RNC staff will also be at churches throughout Ohio to highlight issues which are highly important to Black voters: job creation, educational opportunities, "strong families and safe communities." The first phase of the multi-city initiative kicked off on July 12 in Columbus, Ohio and will end in Cleveland on August 6. Cleveland is the host city of the first GOP presidential debate and the 2016 Republican National Convention.

Other cities and activities which are a part of the initiative will be announced throughout 2015 and 2016.

In an official statement, Alfred C. Liggins, CEO of Radio One says, “The RNC wants to tell its story to the African-American community.  Radio One reaches 82% of Black Americans with our television, radio and digital multi-media platforms. We view ourselves as the link to our audience. Our reach, relationships with Black churches, organizations, entertainers, and our unique understanding of our primary audience makes us a high-value partner to organizations like the RNC. We want the Black electorate to be as informed as possible going into the 2016 election season. “