BUZZ ABOUT VAN

"Van Jones may be the best speaker in America addressing social justice and environmental issues. Audiences are always moved by Van's heart, inspired by his commitment, and rocked by his eloquence. Van doesn't read his speeches; he suffuses them into his listeners because he is utterly present and available. I can think of no one more pertinent to our future than Van and his seamless integration of race, poverty, the environment, and human rights."

"Out of those seen as today's leaders, I know Van Jones to be one of the most important visionaries, strategists, and voices of our times. I recognize that any support given to Van Jones is an investment in the health of our planet, its people, and our future."

"When I think of Ella Baker and what she stood for, Van carries on that work, and I think that's vital. We envision ourselves through the women and men that set a certain standard. Van sets a certain standard."

"From the time I hired Van Jones as a young Yale law student in the early 1990's, I have been deeply impressed with his intellect and heart. He is deeply committed to making the world a better place and is able to inspire others to join him on his quest."

"Van Jones is one of the most powerful and inspiring prophetic voices of our time. He is a force for unity in a time of crippling division with a message for people of all races and ages seeking a source of hope in these troubled times."

"I have known Van since the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights was a gleam in his eye. He has devoted the past ten years to manifesting a vision of racial justice and human rights by building a strong, fighting organization; leading community based campaigns that challenge power and win; and forging unlikely alliances to tackle knotty problems in innovative ways. Van's energy and enthusiasm for social justice work are legendary."

"Van Jones has an original and fearless mind and heart; he will make you cry, laugh and think. You will leave his presence inspired, smarter, in love with humanity and ready to engage deeper with your life."

"Van Jones is one of the most important African American leaders of our time. His brilliant vision about developing an integrated political agenda for racial justice and the environment is a crucial strategy for bringing people together to save our communities and save the planet. He is a groundbreaking political leader of our generation in building activist community that is sustainable in both human and economic resources, and his insistence on integration of arts and spirituality in our movement guarantee that his work will have a momentous impact on our world."

"It is appropriate that VAN rhymes with MAN, because Van Jones is THE MAN! If we had a hundred more like him, the revolution would have happened already. And his great ability to mobilize people is actually creating hundreds of Vans all across the country."

"Hearing Van Jones' passion and intellect is truly transforming. He oozes integrity and charisma. If we had more leaders like Van, this country would be in much better shape."

"Van Jones presents a profound commitment to improving our human condition, together with an uncommon awareness & maturity & giftedness in both the personal and socio-political dimensions. Altogether, Van Jones is an inspiring, motivating and compelling presence!"

Van Jones has the unique ability to entertain, inspire and inform young people so that they reach for their highest potential. After 20 years of teaching college classrooms from UC Berkeley to Georgia Tech, I have seen very few people with this talent. It is no wonder the competition for his time is so great.

"Van Jones is the dynamic, inspiring leader that this generation has been waiting for. His keen insight, solid grasp of the big picture and ability to retain humility while daring to dream are unparalleled. I am honored to consider myself a supporter of his work and encourage everyone to truly hear what he has to say."