JD Mass

JD is an inspiring activist and entrepreneur, whose life journey has been influenced by his experiences within the black community and firsthand encounters with racism. Raised in a diverse community in St. Louis, JD witnessed the effects of discrimination and cultural differences, igniting a profound curiosity about the root causes of bigotry and racism.

From a young age, JD demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit, co-founding a tennis teaching organization with his then college coach. After graduating with a degree in finance, he played a significant role in structuring early business ventures for renowned artist Nelly, including Apple Bottoms Jeans and Derrty Entertainment.
In 2017, JD achieved his doctorate in Organizational Psychology, and he subsequently became deeply involved in white antiracism groups, first in Los Angeles and later in St. Louis. A pivotal moment occurred during a conversation with a black man involved in the movement for justice, who challenged JD to identify the steps to healing racism. Inspired by his journey and the insights gained from his anti-racism work, JD authored the transformative book “Race for What?” The book consists of lessons from his journey and seven steps to healing the harms of racism and create a humane world.