A LEADER WHO LISTENS
Emily brings empathy into Toledo politics.
JOIN OUR MOVEMENT
Emily's priorities are simple but transformative
Housing and Neighborhood Stability
Emily believes housing is a human right. She will champion policies that keep people housed, strengthen tenant protections, and invest in neighborhood revitalization without displacement. Toledo can and must do better for renters, homeowners, and families facing housing insecurity.
Transparency, Accountability, and Inclusion
Emily believes local government should reflect and serve the people it represents. Emily will fight for open communication, responsive leadership, and inclusive decision-making that welcomes diverse voices, especially those too often ignored.
ABOUT EMILY
Advocating for Toledo for 17 years
Emily Desmond is a lifelong storyteller, advocate, and connector who believes empathy is the foundation of strong leadership. A proud Old West End resident, she has spent more than 17 years helping people and communities share their stories in ways that drive change.
Her career began at Adams Street Publishing, where she reported on local politics, the arts, and the people who make Toledo thrive. That experience earned her a reputation as a connector and self-proclaimed ambassador of the city. She went on to create award-winning multimedia advocacy campaigns at ProMedica, blending creativity and compassion to elevate the voices of patients, families, and those facing poverty and systemic barriers.
As founder of Social B. Creative and Swell Magazine, Emily has led communications for small businesses, nonprofits, and political campaigns, including those of State Representative Michele Grim and Ohio Senate candidate Reem Subei. Her work has supported movements for housing justice, environmental sustainability, women’s rights, and immigrant inclusion.
Emily acknowledges the privileges she has had, being white, educated, and supported, and believes those advantages carry a responsibility to uplift others. Her lived experiences as a survivor, advocate, and caregiver have shaped her belief that systems must be changed from within.
Now running as a Write-In Candidate for Toledo City Council At-Large, Emily is bringing her creativity, compassion, and collaborative spirit to public service to build a more equitable, connected, and empathetic Toledo.
FOLLOW EMILY DESMOND ON SOCIAL MEDIA
