The undeniable, improbable rise of NYCC's James Inniss

What does a childless organizer know about childcare?

- By TANDY LAU

James Inniss at bail reform rally in Albany.

New York Communities for Change’s (NYCC) James Inniss asked himself the question on the uncharacteristically warm evening of Oct. 23, 2024. He faced the unenviable task of stepping in at the last minute for a colleague slated to open for a relatively unknown assembly-member's long-shot mayoral campaign launch, thanks to the MTA’s delays. Ironic, given the speaker before him talked about fixing public transit.

While Inniss lacked parenting experience, he could talk all about what affordability meant for Black New Yorkers. So he took the stage — or more accurately, stood under a humble pergola— and went off the cuff. Thankfully, the absence of TV cameras and elected officials relieved some pressure. And there were friendly faces around: other NYCC peers, and members of Asian American organizations DRUM Beats and CAAAV Voice. All packed into a small outdoor space hosted by Queens nonprofit the Connected Chef.

He addressed why a public safety organizer was speaking about childcare and mentioned how he was a product of the New York City public school system. When people cheered, Inniss chided them. “That's something normal,” he said. “Everybody should do that. That is not an accomplishment.” Laughter ensued. But he really got the crowd excited when explained why he and NYCC were offering their endorsement.

“The cost of childcare in New York City is insane,” said Inniss during the event. “The cost of everything in New York City is insane. But if a person who's struggling to make ends meet has to also pay more than their car note to make sure their kids are being educated and being safe after school, that’s a public safety issue...it's particularly Black and Brown New Yorkers who are being affected by this.”