Rep. Sykes Names Akron Rites of Passage Institute the Champions of the Week for #OH13

Congresswoman Sykes named Akron Rites of Passage Institute (AROPI) as the Champions of the Week for Ohio’s 13th Congressional District! AROPI leads in our community by supporting its mission of educating, training and empowering its members in African-centered Rites of Passage process, rituals, customs and practices. AROPI is dedicated to supporting and promoting all aspects of healthy growth and development of individuals, families, and the community. Five years ago, AROPI introduced a community project led by the Elders of Akron to support the ongoing growth, development and long- term sustainability of the African American community. Terrence Shelton was the co-chair of this project, and also served as co-president of the Akron Rights of Passage Institute. Earlier this month, Mr. Shelton laid out plans for a new African American Cultural Center and Museum Complex on behalf of the program. The building will house a museum, a business incubator, and a center to teach people about trading and investing as a means of building economic wealth in the community. He envisions museum exhibits highlighting Akron sports legends, scientists, astronauts, and artists like LeBron James, Gus Johnson, Rita Dove, and Woodrow Nash. It is everyday citizens doing remarkable things like this who help make our community the “Birthplace of Champions.” Community members from AROPI are certainly champions in their own right and have made Akron and Ohio’s 13th Congressional District proud.