The City Club of Cleveland has drawn significant controversy for its decision to invite Aaron Baer, president of the Center for Christian Virtue, to speak at a forum scheduled for January 16, 2025. The center has been designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center due to its opposition to LGBTQ+ rights and its role in influencing legislation in Ohio. Baer’s past comments about transgender individuals have sparked outrage among many local leaders and organizations.
The invitation has provoked responses from over 100 LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations, who have publicly condemned the City Club for providing a platform to Baer. Many in the community believe that allowing Baer to speak contradicts the values of inclusivity and respect for all individuals. The Buckeye Flame has reported on the growing discontent regarding this event.
Despite the backlash, City Club CEO Dan Moulthrop defended the decision, stating that Baer’s presence aligns with the organization’s mission to foster conversations about democracy. Moulthrop emphasized that hosting a forum does not equate to endorsing the views expressed by speakers. He noted the center’s influence in lobbying efforts at the Statehouse and its financial resources as factors in the decision to invite Baer.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost weighed in, urging the City Club to maintain its invitation. He argued that the majority of the club’s members support LGBTQ+ rights and that Baer’s ideas are infrequently encountered in the Cleveland intellectual community. Critics have countered this argument, pointing out that ideas from extremist groups also rarely appear in such forums and questioning where the City Club should draw the line regarding acceptable discourse.
The controversy prompts a vital question about the relevance of the City Club in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape. The organization, which has historically hosted discussions for smaller audiences, faces challenges in remaining pertinent when public discourse is dominated by digital platforms.
While some may view the City Club’s tradition of civil discourse as outdated, it is essential to recognize its role in fostering dialogue in an increasingly polarized society. The City Club has been a longstanding partner of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer, and its commitment to free speech remains a cornerstone of its mission.
As tensions rise, the upcoming forum on January 16 serves as an opportunity for the community to engage with critical issues. Those who oppose the center’s views are encouraged to protest outside, while others seeking insight into the center’s influence on Ohio legislation may choose to attend and engage in dialogue.
The aim of the City Club is to expose ideas to scrutiny rather than shield audiences from them. As the conversation around free speech and civic engagement continues, it is crucial for the community to approach this forum with questions and an open mind, rather than fear of confrontation. The outcome of this event could shape the future of civil discourse in Cleveland and beyond.
