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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 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.

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.
We work to ensure equitable policies, transparent practices, and fair opportunities for advancement within the fire service.
CAFA supports members through mentorship, leadership development, training initiatives, and promotional preparation.
From safety education to community events, CAFA actively partners with neighborhoods to strengthen relationships and promote public trust.
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.
We invest in the next generation through cadet programs, mentorship, and recruitment efforts that build a stronger and more diverse future fire 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.




