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Recognizing Darnell ``deejay'' Johnson As Constituent of the Month

Floor Speech

Date: Aug. 21, 2020
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. LEVIN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Darnell ``DeeJay'' Johnson, a community leader, racial justice activist and local high school football coach, as the Constituent of the Month for August. At a time when our country is reeling from racial injustice and seeking to address police brutality, Mr. Johnson and his team marched side by side to speak out against racial injustice.

This past June, DeeJay organized a Black Lives Matter protest for marchers to walk in support of the movement in North County San Diego. During the protest, marchers raised concerns to DeeJay of a young white male in military-style gear carrying a knife and acting uneasy while walking with the group. DeeJay carefully approached the young man, and after a few minutes of defusing the situation, the 16-year-old handed over the knife from his pocket.

We are seeing millions of Americans all over the nation demanding accountability and comprehensive reform to a system that has allowed police brutality and injustice against people of color for generations. Amidst the united uprising across the country, peaceful protesters voices are being drowned out by those seeking to dismantle the movement with unrest and violence. DeeJay's mission is to not only inspire young people to get involved in change, but to emphasize using their voices and actions peacefully.

With these goals in mind, the scenario that occurred with the young man was a lesson for many involved. The defused scene created a learning opportunity to display how we can all work cohesively together, and most importantly, to work towards a better and more just future for all Americans.

I launched a Constituent of the Month program to recognize individuals who have gone above and beyond to make our region and our country a stronger place for everyone to live and thrive. As our nation and community works toward long overdue racial change and healing, voices like DeeJay's must be lifted and heard. I am honored to recognize Mr. Johnson as my Constituent of the Month, and I thank him for being a prominent role model in amplifying racial justice in our community during a critical time of change for America.

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