James Roy’s story is rooted right here in New Bedford. A proud graduate of New Bedford Public Schools, community-labor organizer, and public school teacher, James has spent his life fighting for working families, championing public education, and organizing alongside neighbors to make our city stronger, fairer, and more united.
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But James’s path to public service wasn’t easy. Raised in a home marked by financial hardship, instability, and the devastating impact of substance use disorder, James lost both of his parents at a young age. Despite these challenges, he found purpose and belonging through New Bedford High School’s award-winning music and theatre programs, where the chorus and drama club became his surrogate family and a lifeline that kept him off the streets.
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After high school, without guidance on navigating college or financial aid, James went straight to work: building circuit boards in factories, auditing orthopedic implants, and managing restaurants. But his desire to learn and grow never faded. He enrolled at Bristol Community College, earned his associate’s degree, and went on to receive a full scholarship to UMass Dartmouth. There, he graduated top of his class with a degree in History and Political Science.
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It was during his time at UMass Dartmouth that James’ passion for public service took shape. Inspired by social movements, the struggles of working people, and the possibilities of civic engagement, James went on to serve the City of New Bedford as Program Director for the Community Alcohol Prevention Program. There, he worked with youth, families, and local partners to promote health and safety, discovering the power of grassroots organizing and the strength of community.
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Eager to serve on a broader scale, James pursued a law degree at Roger Williams University School of Law, where he was recognized as a Leadership Scholar for his service and advocacy.  But during this time and beneath the achievements, long-buried trauma and his family’s history of addiction caught up with him. James developed a substance use disorder that derailed his life taking him on a path of sickness, survival, and desperation. What followed were some of his darkest days but also the hardest-earned lessons of his life about poverty, trauma, community, resilience, and love.
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Today, James is proud to say he’s been in recovery for a decade. That experience has shaped the person he is: a more compassionate, grounded, and determined advocate for those who are too often left behind. 
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Shame and stigma are among the biggest barriers to recovery because they keep people from seeking help, staying in treatment, and rebuilding their lives. And in a city where one in eight residents have struggled with addiction and overdose deaths are twice the state average, we can’t afford judgment and silence. James sees his recovery not as something to hide, but as a source of strength and proof that people and communities can heal, grow, and thrive.
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In the years since, James finished law school, earning his law degree (J.D.), and has become a respected civics teacher and a leader in both community and labor movements. Serving as a regional organizer, he played a leading role in the campaign to repeal the MCAS graduation requirement, expanding opportunities for students across the Commonwealth. He also helped lead successful grassroots efforts for the Fair Share Amendment, which is bringing long-overdue investment to public schools, transportation, and infrastructure and delivering universal free meals to students. In New Bedford, he works alongside immigrant families and local organizations to protect their rights and defend their dignity to ensure every family can live and thrive without fear. His work centers on building coalitions and finding solutions to the challenges we face.
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After years of homeownership feeling unattainable, James now lives in New Bedford’s West End with his wife, Dr. Cynthia Roy, also an educator, and their son Emerson. He continues to fight for strong public schools, economic opportunity, and a safer, healthier, more vibrant city for everyone.

James Roy’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when people have access to strong public education, healthcare, and the support they need to heal. His lived experience—overcoming adversity, fighting for recovery, and building a life rooted in service—makes him not only a committed advocate, but the kind of City Councilor New Bedford needs: someone who listens, who understands struggle, and who never stops believing in the power of this community to rise.