About James

46th Ward aldermanic candidate James Cappleman, 54, is a licensed social worker and family advocate at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital.

A lifelong Democrat, James has lived in Chicago since 1986 and in the 46th Ward for the past seven years. Until mid-2006, he was president of the Uptown Chicago Commission (UCC), a nonprofit, neighborhood organization that seeks to improve the quality of life for Uptown residents.

Career Highlights

Highlights of James’ extensive career include:
  • Working at Traveler’s and Immigrants Aid (now known as Heartland Alliance) as a case manager for people living with HIV/AIDS and mental illness
  • Co-founding a homeless shelter to provide care to people living with HIV/AIDS
  • Serving on city-sponsored HIV Planning and Prevention Group to ensure equitable distribution of resources to HIV service organizations
  • Serving as chair for three years of the Illinois’ National Association of Social Workers’ HIV Task Force
  • Authoring a manuscript for individuals with end-of-life illnesses titled, “Asking the Right Questions to Get the Healthcare You Need”
  • Receiving Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award at the University of Chicago Hospitals for life-long work as an advocate.
In addition to his professional and community activities, James is an active member of Dignity/Chicago, a Catholic organization for the GLBT community. He is a past-president of that organization.

James’ long-time partner, Richard Thale, is a vice-president of UCC and is chair of the 23rd Police District’s Court Advocacy Committee. Both James and Richard are involved in many activities in the 46th Ward to improve its safety and quality of life for all residents.

Download a copy of the recent direct mail piece regarding James' background and qualifications for Alderman.

James Cappleman - Candidate for 46th Ward Alderman
James Cappleman - Candidate for 46th Ward Alderman