Cincinnati African American Fire Fighter Association
Cincinnati African American Fire Fighter Association
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ABOUT CAFA

About CAFA

Advancing equity. Strengthening the fire service. Serving our community.

The Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association (CAFA) is an organization committed to equitable treatment, professional excellence, and meaningful community engagement within the fire service.

Founded in 1980, CAFA emerged from decades of perseverance and adv

Advancing equity. Strengthening the fire service. Serving our community.

The Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association (CAFA) is an organization committed to equitable treatment, professional excellence, and meaningful community engagement within the fire service.

Founded in 1980, CAFA emerged from decades of perseverance and advocacy to ensure fair representation and opportunity within the Cincinnati Fire Department. Today, CAFA continues to serve as a trusted voice for its members while fostering leadership, accountability, and service throughout the city.

Our mission

Our mission is to obtain equitable and fair treatment for our members while promoting professional development, recruitment, and community outreach initiatives that strengthen both the fire service and the communities we serve.

Our history

Our history

The foundation of CAFA is rooted in resilience.

In 1955, Herbert Bane became the first African American firefighter hired in Cincinnati. Progress followed slowly, leading to the Model Cities Cadet Program in 1968 and the landmark Consent Decree in 1974 aimed at improving diversity within the department.

In 1980, CAFA was officially establis

The foundation of CAFA is rooted in resilience.

In 1955, Herbert Bane became the first African American firefighter hired in Cincinnati. Progress followed slowly, leading to the Model Cities Cadet Program in 1968 and the landmark Consent Decree in 1974 aimed at improving diversity within the department.

In 1980, CAFA was officially established to advocate for equity, representation, and advancement. Through pivotal legal efforts, including the Youngblood Consent Decree, CAFA helped shape policies that continue to influence hiring and promotion practices today.

For more than four decades, CAFA has remained committed to ensuring fairness within the fire service while honoring the pioneers who paved the way.

“The Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association was established to address disparities within the fire service and to advocate for equality, mentorship, and community engagement.”

What We Do

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

We work to ensure equitable policies, transparent practices, and fair opportunities for advancement within the fire service.

Professional Development

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

CAFA supports members through mentorship, leadership development, training initiatives, and promotional preparation.

Community Engagement

Advocacy & Fair Treatment

Leadership & Representation

From safety education to community events, CAFA actively partners with neighborhoods to strengthen relationships and promote public trust.

Leadership & Representation

Leadership & Representation

Leadership & Representation

CAFA provides leadership within the fire service and represents the interests of its members in matters of policy, governance, and organizational advancement. We believe representation matters — at every level.

Youth & Recruitment

Leadership & Representation

Youth & Recruitment

We invest in the next generation through cadet programs, mentorship, and recruitment efforts that build a stronger and more diverse future fire service.

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

“More Than Firefighters — We Are Mentors, Leaders, and Community Advocates.”

Our Commitment to Community

Beyond advocacy, CAFA is deeply engaged in service.

We host community safety initiatives, youth outreach programs, fundraising efforts, professional trainings, fitness events, and civic engagement activities that reflect our commitment to both the fire service and the city of Cincinnati.

Our work extends beyond the station walls. We are present, involved, and accountable.

Our Partners

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