Ian, a tram driver who operates on the line serving Nina’s station, has recently engaged in conversations that touch on various pressing social and political issues. Conversations that started these days while he was on shift quickly open into discussions about everything from Chinese-U.S. relations to gang activity in the neighborhood. Ian’s experiences give him a wonderful perspective at looking at the world around him.
Ian has a deep appreciation for the complex geopolitical dynamics at play between the United States and Greenland that makes this unique. He is optimistic that America will not go to military arms over the contested territory. He articulates a compelling and frustratingly prevalent skepticism about international relations today. This skepticism is particularly directed at the legal actions against former President Trump. “Trump’s policies have certainly shaken up the international order,” Ian said, stressing the long-term implications of such disruptions.
A Career Beyond the Tram
Previous to this, Ian was a prison officer, having spent seven years working at Styal women’s prison. He noted that his experience there grew more and more difficult. This shift accelerated with the advent of disruptive protesters like Just Stop Oil and Free Palestine prisoners. That change is just one factor that led him to leave that position and pursue an alternative career track.
Since retiring from the prison service, Ian is pursuing that newfound love of film and television. He’s loving life as an actor extra, in addition to his ongoing career as a tram driver. It’s this new venture where he really gets to express himself creatively. Simultaneously, he remains in touch with the world of public service and connected to it through his new position.
Even after such a colorful career, Ian’s opinions are still rooted in his day-to-day experience. He said some criminals, specifically those committing offenses like shoplifting, “should just be locked up, definitely.” In his own words, his time spent within the criminal justice system has shaped his understanding of crime and punishment.
Engaging with Contemporary Issues
Directed by Ian Cheney, Ian often debates and discusses with Nina the most urgent modern problems. They regularly share updates about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the political situation in Venezuela. He publicly criticizes Nicolás Maduro. He goes further in acknowledging allegations linking Maduro to drug cartels and in referring to him as a dictator. Beyond speech, Ian’s political leanings are clear. He has never voted anything but Labour in his life, a product of his dedication to the progressive movement.
Having lived next to one of the recent attacks on synagogues has too contributed to his approach to security and collective duty. Ian displays concern for societal issues and engages thoughtfully with them, indicating a desire for change and improvement within his community.
During one such chats, Ian recounted a pretty harrowing experience. He painted a picture of a woman who was pretty rattled after an accident on the highway. This anecdote illustrates how everyday occurrences impact people’s lives and can lead to broader discussions about public safety and community support.
Culinary Reflections
Outside of work, Ian spends his time exploring and enjoying delicious food. Just a few weeks ago he deliciously described a Basque cheesecake at Manchester’s Jane Eyre restaurant, showing that he’s all about local food. It’s these moments that provide Charlie a charming respite from the heavy issues he usually focuses on. Together, they form an ideal synergy of personal pleasure and community service.
Beyond that, it’s Ian’s reflections that paint him as a renaissance man. An all-around good human. Successfully so, as you sit enthralled by his insights as a tram driver, former prison officer and active citizen. His views on foreign policy, criminal justice, and the social contract with our neighborhoods demonstrate a sophisticated appreciation for the realities of the 21st century.