Founder of Meoohad Hethaverut Inc.
Community Builder | Political Strategist | Visionary Educator | Security Leader | Father of Generations
For more than 65 years, Chief of Chief Ya’shua Ben Yoseph Ben-Levi Ben Yisrael, also known as James E. Tucker, has been a monumental force in community activism, political engagement, public service, youth empowerment, and institutional development. As the Founder of Meoohad Hethaverut Inc., he has built an enduring legacy grounded in faith, justice, and transformational leadership that stretches from Brooklyn, New York to St. John’s County, Florida.
Early Community Leadership (1960s – 1970s)
His journey began with B’nai Zaqen/Zaken (1960–1967), where he emerged as a foundational leader of the Israelite movement. As President of the Dewey Place Block Association (1964–1969) and Co-Chairman of the Black Caucus of NYC (1967–1969), he was at the forefront of civil rights and grassroots neighborhood empowerment. In 1969, he became a member of the re-election committee for Mayor John V. Lindsay, later serving as a liaison to Lindsay’s Special Community Task Force.
He became known as a bold advocate for youth, education, safety, and community development, coordinating afterschool programs with the Israelite Institute and the Elton Street Block Association’s Drug/Alcohol Prevention Programs (1968–1976). His work shaped entire districts and influenced New York’s education policy during his service as Chairman of the Title I Advisory Board of School District 23 (1972–1975) and Community Liaison to Assemblyman Charles T. Hamilton (1973–1974).
Political Engagement & Security Oversight
Chief Ya’shua served on the NYC Police Department’s 73rd Precinct Community Council (1973–1978) and was appointed Head of Security for Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, managing 23 staffers in her 12th Congressional District re-election campaign. His work with the NYPD, Sanitation, Education, and Health Departments, including elite crime prevention task forces, demonstrated his acumen in law enforcement relations and policy navigation.
He held numerous civic positions including:
- Chairman, Inner 100 Club of the United Political Club, Inc.
- Area Commander for 16 election districts
- Security Chief across congressional, senatorial, and assembly jurisdictions
- Liaison to NYC Housing Authority, Department of Community Affairs, and Community Corp Programs
He was pivotal in emergency response, securing aid for burned-out families, senior citizens, and the disabled, and advocating for public transit re-routing to accommodate elder residents in Brownsville.
Educational Leadership & Think Tank Contributions
He provided critical support to black youth entering police departments, law schools, and higher education. He chaired the Learn & Earn Committee, offering math, reading, and life skill training. His leadership in the United Political Club Think Tank (1971–1979) helped drive strategic initiatives for NYC’s political future. He was also a guiding hand in the elections of Senator Major R. Owens, Assemblyman Thomas Boyland, and several city councilmembers.
As President of Notar ShYisrael Shyarim, Inc. (1975–1979) and Chairman of Israel’s Political Action Borough of Brooklyn (1970–1979), he pushed for spiritual and political unity among Israelite and Black communities.
Southern Expansion: Florida & Beyond (1980–2010)
Upon transitioning to Florida, Chief Ya’shua continued his work with the Florida Department of Community Affairs and held influential positions on the Hastings Political Action Committee, St. Johns County Recreation Board, Drug Prevention Boards, and Hastings School Advisory Committees. His leadership helped build schools, educate communities, and strengthen mental health and housing resources. He served with organizations such as:
- Florida Client’s Council, Inc. (1983–2010)
- Central Florida Community Development Corp.
- Drug Education & Prevention Center
- Tri-County Health Services
- Mental Health Resource Center, Inc.
He rose through the professional ranks as a Forensic Supervisor, Case Manager, and Mental Health Housing Coordinator, supporting underserved individuals with vision and compassion.
Academic Foundation
Chief Ya’shua is a scholar of history, business, and sociology. He holds degrees and certifications from:
- Beni Zaken School of Higher Learning – Ancient Black History
- Israel Institute of Higher Education – Black History
- NYC Community College – Marketing
- Bethune-Cookman College – B.A. in Sociology, Minor in Business Management (1987)
He earned his High School Equivalency Diploma in 1972, proving his dedication to lifelong education and self-improvement.
Honors & Family Legacy
Among his many honors, Chief Ya’shua was named a Kentucky Colonel by the Governor of Kentucky—one of the highest titles of honor awarded by the state. A father of 30 children, he is the patriarch of a generational movement, continuing through his son Chief Daved Ben Ya’shua Ben-Levi, founder of B’nai Binah NYC-20. Together, they launched a United Coalition and the Children of Understanding, bridging generational gaps with unity, innovation, and educational development.
The Legacy of a Nation-Builder
From his work with NYC Mayors, Florida Governors, Senators, and Congresspeople, to grassroots block associations, youth programs, and mental health initiatives, Chief of Chief Ya’shua Ben Yoseph Ben-Levi Ben Yisrael has cemented his name in the annals of American community service history.
His life is not merely a biography—it is a living testament to justice, spiritual conviction, and relentless dedication to empowering the people.
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Letters
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