In Conversation with Person of the Year

from page 4 ing additional support to Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), who now serves as House Democratic Leader and credits Rep. Johnson for her unwavering support and guidance.

Now we have heard the negative comments and we have heard the praise. We also did our research.

In addition to being a leader on the political front, she has served in numerous leadership positions in other organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, and Link’s Inc.

Ms. Johnson is mother, grandmother, community servant and world leader.

She has served with distinction in an ofttimes hostile environment that has definitely not been friendly to Black women. But still “EBJ” as many affectionately call her, stays true to her beliefs and conviction.

Further, in her portfolio she has numerous accomplishments and I am going to list just 10 which I hope will spark you to pursue further information about this dynamic woman.

1. First African American and first female chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

2. Authored the CHIPS and Science

Act, which included an emphasis on scientific research funding (became Public Law 117-167).

3. Authored the Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which requires the Federal Communications Commission to designate 9–8–8 as the universal telephone number for a national suicide prevention and mental-health crisis hotline.

4. Served as the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 107th Congress. Founded the tri-Caucus (CBC, CHC, and CAPAC).

5. Was the lead lawmaker overriding

6.

7. Involved in multiple pieces of legislation focused on diversifying STEM professions and ensuring all minorities—especially African Americans— have access to STEM education

8. Used experience as the first Nurse elected to Congress to provide valuable insights when drafting and passing the Affordable Care Act.

10. Worked with Local and National stakeholders to help increase benefits for SNAP assistance recipients through the FARM bill and to tackle hunger. Founded the Dallas Coalition of Hunger Solutions.

Just a snippet. There is so much more and I encourage you to get in line for the book, but also check out this conversation: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zQxy-9TRAXI

And if you didn’t know, now you know!