Antonio French facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Antonio French
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | October 16, 1977 |
| Education | MBA, Washington University |
| Alma mater | Auburn University |
| Occupation | former St. Louis City Alderman |
| Spouse(s) | Jasenka Benac French |
| Children | 1 |
Antonio French is a former city leader from St. Louis, Missouri. He was an alderman for the 21st Ward.
From 2009 to 2017, he served as an alderman. He represented neighborhoods like Penrose, College Hill, and O'Fallon. Antonio French grew up in these areas. Before becoming an alderman, he was a Democratic Committeeman for the 21st Ward. He also helped many political campaigns succeed. He also ran a newspaper called The Public Defender.
Contents
Antonio French's Political Journey
First Term as Alderman (2009-2013)
Antonio French was first elected as an alderman in 2009. He held this position until 2017. In 2010, a local newspaper named him "Best Local Politician."
During his first term, he worked on a project to install security cameras. This $600,000 project helped reduce crime in his ward. He also tried to get speed bumps installed in O'Fallon Park. However, the mayor did not approve this idea.
French also started a "Block by Block" campaign. This project helped fix up houses with the help of companies and non-profit groups. He also organized jazz concerts in O'Fallon Park for the community.
Second Term as Alderman (2013-2017)
After being re-elected in 2013, Alderman French worked on a new bill. This bill aimed to create a civilian review board. This board would have seven people. Their job would be to review police evidence and investigations.
The board could send investigations back to the police for more questions. If still not satisfied, they could do their own investigation. They could also suggest actions to the police chief. During this time, French also earned his MBA degree from Washington University.
Running for Mayor of St. Louis
In 2017, Antonio French ran for Mayor of St. Louis. A major local newspaper, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, supported him. He finished fourth among the seven candidates.
Helping Kids Learn: The North Campus
In 2012, French started an organization called The North Campus. This program helps children with their education. It is similar to a successful program in New York City.
The North Campus offers after-school tutoring and mentoring. It also provides fun activities for over 150 children. The goal is to give children a great education and a good childhood. This helps them and their families improve their lives. French is the founder and president of this organization.
Involvement in Ferguson Protests
In 2014, Antonio French became well-known across the country. He helped share information about the protests in Ferguson, Missouri. These protests happened after the shooting of Michael Brown.
French was one of the first elected officials to get involved. He acted like a journalist, sharing photos and updates on social media. He also tried to help calm things down between people.
Personal Life
Antonio French's wife, Jasenka, is from Bosnia. She came to the United States with her family. They were refugees from the Bosnian War.
