One of the most wealthiest African American men at this time, John Jones, spoke out against the black codes. He didn't care about his life, but the life of others. John Jones wrote a pamphlet on why he felt the black laws should be repealed and his views on the subject. In the pamphlet, there was a complete copy of the black laws and his reasons and personal accounts to why the laws should be repealed. John Jones was one of the biggest activist of this time. He was always eager to explore and exchange new ideas. He held these "meetings" to talk about the repeal of the laws. Abolitionist such as Joseph H. Barquet, and Elijah Lovejoy attended these meetings. Each meeting hey all risked there lives to fight for a cause. John Jones also wrote a letter to Illinois Governor Richard Yates, November 4, 1864 explaining his views on the black codes. This letter was not as detailed of an account of his reasons as his pamphlet, but his point got across. Not much changed after the letter was sent. It was really difficult to make a difference as a black man at this time.