Contact Councilman James

About Council Member
Oscar S. James,II

Council Member Oscar James is passionate about issues concerning urban youth and education. He believes in dedicating time and resources toward Newark's children and has chosen a path of public service to help him in this endeavor. In fact, his participation in Newark politics dates back to an early age, when he volunteered on local campaigns, joined canvassing teams, and worked the polls on election days.

James attended local public schools in the South Ward throughout early childhood and graduated from Delbarton Preparatory School. He went on to Villanova University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He then returned to his hometown of Newark and became focused on improving life for residents of the South Ward, especially the youth in the community. When he was sworn into office in July 2006, James became the youngest elected official in Newark's history.

James’s commitment to neighborhood development and revitalization can be seen in many of the initiatives he has helped to lead. He spearheaded a fundraising drive that raised $30,000 for the construction of a local playground in the South Ward under the direction of the Reverend Eric M. Beckham of Clear View Baptist. He has also played an important role in the annual Holiday Toy Drive with Pathways Academy, which during the 2006 holiday season helped collect and distribute $8,000 in toys, hats, gloves, and scarves to more than 200 South Ward children. He has also helped implement initiatives to keep children off the streets and out of trouble.

James has worked steadily with the innovative programs offered by Heru's Army, a local group comprised of entrepreneurs and community activists committed to bettering Newark. James has been involved with the group’s youth forum, which provides youth with an opportunity to voice their concerns about their education, and with its entrepreneurial program, which concentrates on uniting Newark's business owners and local leaders. The programs have attracted the attention of various sponsors, and the group plans to extend its outreach citywide.

James credits his mentors for encouraging his desire to provide opportunities for youth and to improve the quality of life for all Newark residents and thanks his parents, both Newark natives, for instilling in him a love for community involvement and a call to service in the City of Newark.