John’s Activation for Service:

On July 6, 2016, John’s good friend and co-worker Philando Castile was shot and killed by a St. Anthony, Minnesota police officer, after being pulled over for a traffic stop in Falcon Heights, Minnesota.  The immediate aftermath of the death was live-streamed on Facebook by Philando’s girlfriend, a passenger in the vehicle.  Philando’s death immediately led to widespread and sustained local, national and international protests, vigils, and other actions directed towards the issues of racism, racial bias in policing, and other racial disparities. 

The death of Philando was a turning point in John’s life.  Since Philando’s death, John has been compelled to be a voice for Philando, and for those like Philando who have been victimized by injustice.  John has spoken, and stood, and marched and asked, and pleaded, and fought, for justice and accountability.