Jim Murphy (skateboarder) facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Full name | James Murphy |
| Occupation | Skateboarder, community activist, skate entrepreneur |
| Sport | |
| Sport | Skateboarding |
James Murphy is an American skateboarder, writer, and artist. He was born on October 11, 1965. James is also known for owning a skateboard company. He is a strong supporter of skateboarding for good causes.
Contents
James Murphy's Early Life
James Murphy has a background that includes both Lenni-Lenape and Irish heritage. He first started skateboarding in 1976. This was when he was just 11 years old.
Becoming a Pro Skateboarder
In the 1980s, James Murphy became a professional skateboarder. This happened right after he finished college at Rutgers University. He later went on tour with the famous Alva skateboard company.
Stronghold Society: Helping Communities
James Murphy and Walt Pourier worked together to create the Stronghold Society. This group helps communities in many ways. James is in charge of the skate parks for the Stronghold Society.
Wounded Knee Skatepark Program
James and Walt also started the Wounded Knee Four Directions Skatepark Program. This program builds and supports skateparks. It focuses on communities where Native American people live. The program is part of the Stronghold Society.
Building the Pine Ridge Skatepark
James Murphy and his company, Wounded Knee Skateboards, helped build a special skatepark. They worked with Walt Pourier and the Stronghold Society. This park is called the Wounded Knee 4-Directions Skatepark. It is located on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. The park opened in 2011.
Wounded Knee Skateboards: Spreading Awareness
In 1998, James Murphy and Andy Kessler started a company. It was called Wounded Knee Skateboard Manufacturing and Propaganda. They chose the name Wounded Knee to teach people about Native American history. They wanted to share the story of the Wounded Knee Massacre. James and Andy also hoped their company would one day help the Lakota people. They planned to build skateparks for young people in the tribe.
Nibwaakaawin: Skateboarding for Wisdom
James Murphy also teamed up with Todd Harder. They founded Nibwaakaawin (which means Wisdom). This is a Native American non-profit organization. Its goal is to encourage creativity and courage. It helps young people feel proud of their culture. The group also promotes healthy activities through skateboarding.
