Meanstreets coach Jonathan James has been on the frontlines in the battle for social justice and racial equity. As a man who grew up on the West side of Chicago, Jonathan has seen firsthand how the education and wealth gap has impacted his community. Now as a father of a young black man, Jonathan is determined to make a positive impact. I sat down with Jonathan to discuss why he is so committed to the mission. What inspired you to get involved? Having a Black son. After the death of George Floyd, I kind of had an panic attack. Looking at my son and coming to the realization that he can go out into the world and be a productive citizen and be killed for doing nothing. That’s basically what inspired me to get involved. What was your awareness level when you were a kid? I would say my parents didn’t sugarcoat anything. Growing up in the hood, I had seen a lot of violence and drug dealing on the West side where I’m from. Then when I was in sixth grade, my parents moved closer to the Elmwood Park area. The first week I was harassed by the police for dribbling a ball down the street because I didn’t look like I lived there. What are your thoughts regarding all the violence around Chicago during this movement? Umm, a lack of resources really. I get it, and I don’t want to say I get it, but we are still fresh out of slavery. Our community is fighting for survival because of lack of resources. They need places to go, I mean look it’s a food desert. I get it, we need resources. What is your biggest message to your son? Make sure you have something you believe in, have a goal that’s going to keep you moving in the right direction. It is easy to get distracted, so having a goal can help you stay focused. Who, if anyone, inspires you? Right now any black man that is concerned and trying to make an impact. You and Ty (Tyrone Slaughter), men that are giving up their time to make an impact in this fight for equity. What is next, politics? I’m considering trying to running for alderman in the Austin community, but there is still a lot to learn. Right now, the focus is on sparking a fire in the younger generation, and making them understand that they can accomplish their dreams, and making sure they get where they need to be.