Bipeds of Brookland:

Bipeds of Brookland: Jackie Young

Jackie Young became involved in progressive politics in high school. In the 70s, her love of travel combined with her progressive politics. This led her to join a group who traveled to Cuba to help with the sugar cane production and to protest the US blockade of Cuba. She lived there for 3 months, cutting sugar cane, living in a tent, and traveling. "I am so glad the blockade may soon be officially over; the people of the USA and Cuba will benefit."

After college, Jackie became a union organizer. She went to graduate school, earned a doctorate in labor relations and a law degree, and went on to teach labor law. Jackie moved to DC and worked with the National Labor Relations Board for 30 years. "I retired in December and spent 2 months in Nicaragua and Costa Rica teaching English and traveling."

Jackie raised her two kids in Brookland. “We all joined the pool, Prince George Community Pool and our kids hung out together after school. I chose to buy a house in Brookland because home prices were cheap. I wanted to live in the city, but in a neighborhood with a small town feel, and I wanted to live in a multicultural/multi ethnic environment.”  She adds, "In those days, you could live here on one income. Brookland ... [is now] significantly more expensive, but I am enjoying the book store and restaurants which we never had before.”

Jackie enjoys doing volunteer work with the Washington Revels, a musical theater group. Every year, the Revels distribute free theater tickets to their Christmas/winter show to organizations serving low-income families. "I’m always looking for new groups to invite!" She also is a volunteer with the National Park Service, and is a longtime supporter of Bethlehem House.

"Over 30 years have passed since I first moved here.  I saw families with young children stay a few years then move across town or to Maryland for better schools.  Now, families are staying in Brookland and putting down roots.  That is a great thing for a neighborhood!"

Bipeds of Brookland: A weekly series introducing the people who make Brookland their home, one step at a time.
Interview and photo by Tom Sabella.