TOUSSAINT ROMAIN | DURATION: 52 MINUTES
Airdate: March 28, 2018
Toussaint Romain is a public servant devoted to equity and justice. He is a former Assistant Public Defender in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Defender's Office, where he most recently represented indigent clients charged as habitual felons. He conducted over 40 jury trials and many more bench trials over a ten-year period, handling cases ranging from first-degree murder to domestic violence crimes. Toussaint is an adjunct professor teaching courses on criminal justice and criminology at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He has received numerous honors and awards, including the Nish Jamgotch, Jr. Humanitarian Award for exceptional service to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community, the Charlotte magazine Charlottean of the Year award, and the Leadership Charlotte Schley R. Lyons Circle of Excellence Award. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at UNC Charlotte and a J.D. at Regent University School of Law.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in criminal justice, protest, privilege and wealth, and to creating community change.
IN THIS EPISODE
Toussaint announces his run for Charlotte-Mecklenburg District Attorney.
He answers what is motivating him to run, why he is qualified for the position, and the risk he is taking.
He recalls moments of protest during his life that have defined him.
Toussaint shares how he became 'the man in the white shirt' during the Keith Lamont Scott protest, and keeping the peace between police officers and protesters.
He the profile he has in Charlotte, the message he wants to deliver, and the actual change he wants to see.
Toussaint talks about the boarding school he attended, the values it reinforced in him, and the skills it taught him that are relevant to his work today.
He discusses what privilege means to him and the shame he has overcome.
Toussaint reads his favorite prayer.
plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: The Man in the White Shirt
To Learn More About Toussaint
Questions
What struck you about Toussaint's comments?
How do you bridge differences?
What does privilege mean to you?
What impact do you want to make?
We invite your posts on our Facebook page.
This episode is sponsored by Blumenthal Performing Arts, celebrating its 25th year presenting the best in performing arts.
