Ep.8 - John Bolanos, retiree from Ross Township: being a grandfather (6 of them are black adoptees)

John Bolanos, a retired executive from Austin, Texas, relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania a few years ago to be nearer to his grandchildren. His roots trace back to San Bruno, located on the southern side of San Francisco, California, where he was raised with conservative values. When his daughter expanded their family by adopting seven children, six of whom are African American, John’s political views remained largely unchanged. However, the tragic murder of Michael Brown in 2014, along with the subsequent unjust killings of numerous African Americans, sparked a realization in him. He understood that as his grandchildren grew older, society might perceive them as threats due to their race. This profound realization prompted a shift in John’s life. His perspectives evolved, and his circle of former friends shrunk as he gained new friends.