No one is too young to use their voice – this has been the guiding principle for Jermaine Cole Jr. since his junior year in high school.

Jermaine’s inspiration for serving the community, specifically through political advocacy, began after his grandmother passed away. He shared that his family encountered significant issues with the healthcare system before her death and it was that experience that shaped his desire to advocate for reform in healthcare.

After reaching out to several Tennessee State House representatives, Jermaine found one who was willing to help and developed a mentoring relationship with 86th District Rep. Justin J. Pearson (D-Memphis). Pearson has spent his time in the House advocating against gun violence and Jermaine has come alongside him to address the issues that he sees in our state.

"There are many things I'm passionate about," says Jermaine. “I have made it my mission to stand up for those things. Before I lost my grandmother, I did not have any interest in politics but after living through those difficult experiences, I won’t stop working for change.”

January 22, 2025, will forever be etched in Jermaine's memory. He was at home with his mother when they turned on the TV to see the first reports of the shooting at Antioch High School. Being born and raised in that community, he knew the area well. Jermaine’s concern was raised immediately, and after receiving dozens of texts and calls from his colleagues in the gun violence prevention community he got in his car and drove to the post-shooting reunification site. He stepped into the familiar role of community advocate.

Community advocates play a crucial role in assisting families to process the immediate situation and reunite with their loved ones following traumatic events. While first responders are focused on managing immediate dangers and providing medical triage, advocates concentrate on supporting and comforting the families.

Jermaine stepped into the chaos around him following the Antioch High School shooting. He recognized a communication disconnect between district officials and law enforcement. He called upon a Spanish-speaking friend for assistance, and together they worked to facilitate clearer communication between officials and the worried families.

“It was challenging to watch parents struggle with whether their child was safe,” Cole shares as he processes the whole experience. “Our first responders are there to control the situation but just as they are under stress, so are the victim’s families and loved ones. In such intense moments, people often don't know who to ask or what questions to pose. As an advocate, I have a chance to help talk to those affected by the present situation, person to person. I learned that it’s vital to talk to people as people. I think it helps them feel safe and heard.”

In consoling emotional parents, Cole remained composed, sharing updates he received from the Metro Nashville Police Department. His calm presence seemed to bring comfort on one of the hardest days for many at the reunification site. He credited his deep roots in the Antioch community for aiding his efforts that day.

Jermaine emphasizes that advocacy isn't reserved for the politically experienced or older generations.

"Anyone can be a community advocate," he insists, hoping his actions will motivate others to step up during tough times.

Now, he's actively engaging at the State Capitol, meeting with legislators to discuss gun violence prevention in schools. His goal is straightforward: he wants elected officials to recognize the vulnerability of young people and to use available resources to ensure their safety. His journey from a high school student to a community voice shows how personal experiences can lead to significant community change.

He hopes to lead others in bringing change to their community as well.