LoveUary for J.T. (James Thomas)

Street Memorial for JT - art by Jaz Colibri

By Freeway - Co-founder Oakland Homeless Union and POOR Magazine povertyskola reporter

I first met JT during an outreach at E. 12th. His enthusiasm about organizing was magnetic; when I asked him if he'd be down to do an interview about the sweeps, not only did he say yes, he followed up with three other names that would also be down. That was how every conversation with him was- I'd ask for one thing, and he'd come back with that, plus some.

His faith in humanity and his compassion for others was unwaivering, despite the repeated disappointments he experienced on the part of the City and those who were supposed to be serving him.

He died waiting for something that should be a basic human right- his enthusiasm and passion is what I'll remember most, and carry with me, continuing the fight for housing justice for all.

Thank you for sharing your light JT. Thank you for trusting us