Youth & Justice: Bridging Gaps in the System with Judge McLeod

Ep. 4 What does it really take to move justice from punishment to opportunity? This week on The Stir 716 we are honored to sit down with Retired Judge James A.W. McLeod — a true trailblazer in Buffalo’s legal and community landscape. Not only is he the great-nephew of civil rights icon Mary McLeod Bethune, but over nearly five decades he’s broken barriers, from serving as the first African American outside New York City to be a confidential law clerk, to leading the Legal Aid Bureau Public Defender’s Office. From family court to Erie County court, Judge McLeod has dedicated his career to equity, youth rehabilitation, and mentorship — and in this conversation, he shares wisdom that every one of us can learn from. ✨ Why mentorship and education are key to breaking cycles of crime ✨ The urgent need for mental health and youth-focused programs ✨ How businesses and schools can partner to fuel Buffalo’s growth ✨ The systemic challenges of racial disparities in justice 🔑 “Businesses thrive when you have a well-educated city.” – James McLeod If you care about justice, equity, and the future of Buffalo, this episode is a must-listen.  🔗 Resources Mentioned: The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander. Website: The Stir 716 Follow us on IG @TheStir716 LinkedIn: The Stir Seven One Six Youtube: @TheStir716 About the Guest:  Retired Buffalo City Court Judge James A.W. McLeod is a distinguished jurist and community leader with a career spanning nearly five decades. Judge McLeod earned his law degree from the University at Buffalo and became only the second African American attorney hired by a major Buffalo law firm. He went on to break multiple barriers as the first African American to serve as Erie County’s Second Assistant County Attorney and to head the Buffalo/Erie County Legal Aid Bureau. Throughout his career, Judge McLeod served on the bench in Buffalo City Court, Family Court, and Erie County Court, earning recognition for his commitment to equity, mentorship, and community service. Beyond the courtroom, he has been active in organizations such as the NAACP, Buffalo Urban League, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, while also serving on numerous civic boards. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 1:00 Welcome Judge James McLeod  3:00 What would you do as Mayor? 3:31 Revitalizing Buffalo Through Education and Business Collaboration 6:50 Business Tax 8:52 Why Did You Become a Lawyer? 9:40 Rising Crime Amongst Buffalo Youth 11:50 Reviving Community Involvement to Address Youth Challenges 14:59 Addressing Community Needs and Accountability in East Buffalo 17:41 Reducing Recidivism Through Education and Community Engagement 24:36 Generational Trauma and Evolving Respect in Youth 31:37 Encouraging Young Black Students to Pursue Careers in Law Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices