James Bryant (journalist) facts for kids

James S. Bryant was an important journalist and a leader for civil rights in Omaha, Nebraska, during the late 1800s. He worked hard to make life better for African Americans in his community. He was also a writer for a newspaper called The Progress, where he worked with Ferdinand L. Barnett.

Helping People Find Homes

In 1890, James S. Bryant joined a special group that helped African Americans in Omaha buy or build their own homes. This group was like a helpful bank and support system all in one. It was called a national building, loan, and protective union.

Leaders of the Home Union

James S. Bryant was the attorney for the local part of this group. Other leaders included George F. Franklin as president and Alfred S. Barnett as the secretary and treasurer. They all worked together to make sure people could get the help they needed to own a home.

Community Involvement and Civil Rights

James S. Bryant was very active in his community and worked to support civil rights. He believed in fairness and equal opportunities for everyone.

Afro-American Fair Association

In 1894, he was a leader in the Afro-American Fair Association in Omaha. This group likely organized events to celebrate African American culture and achievements. He sometimes had different ideas with Cyrus D. Bell, who ran another newspaper, about how the fair should be organized.

Union League Club and National Afro-American League

Bryant was also an officer in the Union League Club, which was led by Matthew Ricketts. In 1895, he was chosen to represent his state at a big meeting for the National Afro-American League. This was an important group that worked for civil rights across the country.

Other Work

Besides his work as a journalist and civil rights leader, James S. Bryant also had a job in the city government. He worked in the city comptroller's office, which handles the city's money and records. He had a daughter who was born around 1879.