Join us for Dr. Umar Johnson LIVE in Cincinnati! Secure your tickets now for the CAFA Legacy Night & Document, where we will explore the community impact of the Firefighter Association and share the valuable membership benefits available to all attendees.
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.
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
Dr. Umar Johnson is coming to Cincinnati!
Join CAFA for an unforgettable night featuring the premiere of The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories and a live fireside chat with Dr. Umar Johnson.