Meet James
James Cappleman is a life-long Democrat who has lived in Chicago since 1986 and in the 46th ward since 1999.
For the past ten years, James has been on the board of directors for the Uptown Chicago Commission (UCC), a not-for-profit neighborhood organization that seeks to improve the quality of life for all Uptown residents. He just finished serving his second term as the board president. James has helped form block clubs, organize service projects, and create open access to necessary information for residents throughout the 46th Ward.
While working to address unmonitored sex-offenders in the 46th Ward as president of UCC, James identified a weakness in the enforcement of the law that limits sex-offenders from living near a school, playground or daycare facility in Illinois. His work with Attorney General Lisa Madigan on this issue led to stronger enforcement and an increase in safety for children in the 46th ward and in the state overall.
James continues to work with State Sen. Heather Steans, State Rep. Greg Harris and surrounding aldermen on many task forces to address issues related to public safety. He served on the Buena Park Neighbors taskforce to address the public drinking problem on the 4000 block of North Broadway. He is an active board member of Annie’s Legacy, a Southside not-for-profit organization that seeks to empower women who have experienced abuse and poverty
In 2006, James received the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award at the University of Chicago Medical Center for life-long work as an advocate. James used the $1,000 award money to promote the City’s Clean & Green annual event within the Uptown neighborhood. In 1987, he co-founded a homeless shelter that provided care for people living with HIV/AIDS and for three years served as chair of the Illinois’ National Association of Social Workers’ HIV Task Force.
Because of his commitment to transparency and reform, James is active in Open Government Chicago and a member of Democracy for America and IVI-IPO.
Currently working as a licensed social worker, James is involved in quality improvement research at ACCESS Community Health Network and has published a book for individuals with chronic illness entitled Asking the Right Questions to Get the Health Care You Need.
James’ long-time partner of 18 years, Richard Thale, is chair of the 23rd Police District’s Court Advocacy Committee and a CAPS facilitator for Beat 2312. In response to gang violence within a block of their home, they both organized and attended positive loitering events for 14 straight Fridays in late 2009.
If you’d like to know more about James give us a call at 312-725-VOTE (8683) or contact via the website.
