Jonesing for Jones. Van that is.

How much do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Green crusader Van Jones is building a movement around not only green and sustainable living, but providing economic opportunity through sustainable jobs.

I met Van Jones in January 2007 at the National Conference on Media Reform. He was one of the key speakers and I was blown away. "That man should be President", I thought to myself. Keep in mind this was a conference with many illustrious big names like Phil Donahue, Bill Moyers, Jane Fonda, Geena Davis and numerous other media reform activists.

I didn't have a chance to really chat with Van because I was in my shy mode so I didn't bombard him like the rest of the folks at the conference.

I went to Netroots Nation this year and he once again was a speaker. I had been telling folks all about this great activist leader I met in Memphis but no one had heard of him. After his speech, I asked people what they thought and EVERYONE I talked to was blown away.

I enjoy reading any article I can find on Van. Grist published this "A Van with a Plan" back in 2007. This year they did a follow-up article and I love their 'vangelism' tag for his activism.

EarthFirst.com had this to say about Van today:

"‘Vangelism’ – it’s what Grist.org dubbed environmental and civil rights advocate Van Jones’ brand of activism. Not many environmental activists can say they’ve got a movement named after them, but Van Jones isn’t just any environmental activist."

Now, EarthFirst.com calls him a "celebrity". I don't know if he would like being called that since celebrity is a trivial label. Heck, when I did finally have the guts to go up and talk to him a little more this year, I said out loud to him what I thought last year...that he should be President. His response? "What did I ever do to offend you? That would be the worst job!" Ha! It was a funny and very true response. He isn't into power for power's sake. He is into real change. Oh, and he happens to be really hot too. :)

Here is Van Jones speaking at NCMR in 2007. Enjoy!

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