James Davis: A Political Life Cut Short

James Davis will likely be most remembered for the tragic circumstances surrounding his assassination inside of City Hall in 2003, but the Councilman played a leading role in many other fundamental issues regarding Fort Greene and Clinton Hill before his death.

Raised in Crown Heights, Davis only served for two years as Councilman of the 35th District — now held by Councilwoman Letitia James — but had already spent ample time in civic life before taking office. He worked as a police officer for the NYPD, a corrections officer,  a District Leader and a minister. Most notably, as a police officer he started an anti-violence campaign that led to him becoming a public figure of sorts for the NYPD.

But Davis also left his stamp on other aspects of local life.

“He was very into the arts,” said his brother, Geoffrey Davis, who now runs the James E. Davis Foundation. “He was involved in making BAM’s programming more diverse — BAM is doing more outreach to people of color now.”

Geoffrey Davis, 47, also cited his brother’s desire to see more participation by locals in politics.

“He pushed for more civic involvement from everyone,” Geoffrey Davis said. “His concern was it didn’t matter how wealthy you were, everyone should be together and be involved regardless of your race, sexual orientation or class.”

But Davis’ promising political career was cut short before it could be realized.

In 2003, James Davis was shot dead by a political rival moments before a session of the City Council was to begin.

On that day, James Davis was to introduce a resolution calling for prevention of violence in the workplace.