John H. Johnson

The critical importance of Mr. John H. Johnson's contributions to the world is undeniable and "beyond category" ("Celebrating The Life And Legacy of John H. Johnson," Nov. 2005).

In thousands upon thousands of American communities like my childhood home in Arkansas, we could not see ourselves in available media, except as lawbreakers, too inferior to even be jailed with heinous White criminals. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for showing our far more numerous positive faces.

In school textbooks, we could not see ourselves, except as slaves. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for showing the path to change.

In employment, the standard picture of success was non-farm labor, steady enough to let a family get through a whole year without welfare. Poorly paid teachers, preachers and funeral directors (they were undertakers then) set the high mark for aspirations. Publishers, judges, sheriffs, manufacturers, lawmakers and the like did not come in the color Black. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for expanding our horizons.

Even in death, we were painted too inferior to join a common community of the dead in a cemetery. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for painting our dignity.

As we moved from "Tolerance Day" to "Black History Week" to "Black History Month," we were served up a few long-dead heroes. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for giving us living heroes and the heroics of everyday people.

We were adjudged as having no worthwhile artistic ability. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for showing our incredible creativity in all art forms.

When the world beyond our town limits existed in media that did not include us, you gave us a national and international presence. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for opening up the world.

While establishing our humanity, ability and marketability in our own minds, and others, you, Mr. Johnson, by your innovative genius, courage and "Persistence Against the Odds," became the model for greatness far, far beyond that which could have been dreamed of in the days of my youth. In doing so, you diversified and maximized our views of self to include mega-businesses and scientific exploration and unlimited possibilities. Thank you, Mr. Johnson.

It is an unassailable truth that you, Mr. Johnson, removed the power to define us from the domain of "White only." Moreover, we now can measure ourselves in relation to your monumental achievements. We are free to dream bigger dreams.

Arnette R. Hubbard

Judge

State of Illinois

Circuit Court of Cook County

Law Division

I was fascinated by the articles and tributes to John H. Johnson. His life was a great triumph. I learned a lot about struggles somewhat unknown to my generation. I am only 19 years old, and I believe everyone is here for a purpose. These stories lifted my spirits, and now I know I can still be successful. Knowledge and determination always are the most important keys to one's success.

Ronald Stoute Jr.

Richmond, Va.

John H. Johnson went above and beyond to establish a voice when we as a people were invisible to the rest of America. When I read the legacy of Mr. Johnson, I was compelled to show my appreciation for a pioneer who has been a part of our lives for so long. I was deeply moved and overwhelmed with the accomplishments of such a great man who went against the odds to become a success and not give up on his dreams. It took great courage to fulfill his mission, and I am one who truly appreciates his character, vision and accomplishments.

Mr. Johnson will be greatly missed. God bless his family, and may the legacy live on.

Terry W. Wells

Butner, N. C.

Thank you so much for the awesome, outstanding coverage of the life of John H. Johnson! I sat in my classroom during my lunch break and cried with joy over his great legacy.

Alva Borens

Tyler, Texas

Thank you for the heartfelt and comprehensive tribute to Mr. Johnson. I laughed, cried, smiled and clutched my pearls. Bravo!! He was a true American hero. I loved his mantra and vanguard approach to doing business in corporate America.

I was fortunate to meet Mr. Johnson with my client, Jill Scott, at an EBONY luncheon in 2000. Jill and I were instantly nervous and in awe upon meeting this giant. Mr. Johnson was simply gracious, charismatic, entertaining and honest. What a man!

Thank you for the memories.

Karen Taylor

President

TaylorMade Media

COPYRIGHT 2005 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group