Loann Crane was a true champion for justice and equality for all
Rightly heralded upon her death on Nov. 9 as a leading arts and education patron, philanthropist-activist Loann Crane (1925-2021) equally must be remembered as one of Ohio’s true champions of civil liberties, civil rights, and social justice.
She was passionate about racial equity, women’s rights, reproductive freedom, and voting access. A fuller picture of her lifelong commitments must be lifted and celebrated.
Loann was an early generous benefactor of the Washington Gladden Social Justice Park in downtown Columbus and many other justice advocacy organizations. She was a longstanding member and staunch supporter of the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio.
In 2016, with Loann’s encouragement and financial support, the ACLU of Ohio developed an ambitious
multi-year plan to expand our engagement and placemaking in central Ohio.
Her investment enabled us to relocate from a cramped office with just three staffers to a much larger office and community event space. Our Columbusbased staff is now at 14, equaling our staff size in Cleveland.
In June, Loann made an extraordinary last gift to the ACLU, making possible new positions in our legal, policy, and organizing departments in Ohio, as well as strengthening smaller ACLU affiliates in several southern states. Her capstone contribution now stands as the largest from a living donor in the ACLU of Ohio’s 101year history.
Loann’s last big trip was to The National Legacy Museum and Memorial for Peace and Justice, more commonly known as the lynching museum in Montgomery, Ala. She was incredibly moved by this last sojourn, which much more than a recreational vacation.
In addition to her leadership in arts and education, Loann’s legacy for justice and equality is strong and will be forever inspiring.
J. Bennett Guess, Executive Director, ACLU of Ohio