Devon C Johnson
Historical Education + Public Speaking
devoncraigjohnson@gmail.com
Do we know how and why some people became representative of certain movements? What is the purpose of making distinctions between protesters, rioters, and looters? What makes society more likely to sympathize with a sweet, violin-playing empath over an "imposing" man with a criminal record? How do people with the best intentions fall victim to respectability politics and similar tools that keep white supremacy from being eradicated, and how we can combat these biases? Let’s unpack the broken beliefs we hold but never question, and offer a new, more inclusive lens from which to evaluate. If I've done my job, the people will have a lot more questions going out than they did coming in.
Stories
When it comes to stories, I’ve learned from the best. My love of literature has given me the ability to shape powerful pictures from raw clay. But my first love was non-fiction. I found a book for every question I had, and I read it. Being extremely curious has made me an excellent researcher and put me on the path to becoming an engaging public speaker, storyteller, and presenter who leads community talks and workshops rooted in multi-culturalism, diversity, equity, inclusion, and historical
Community
One of the lead organizers for the McCarren Gathering, a community-focused organization and the longest daily gathering of BLM activists in New York history.
Initiated the weekly Monday Moments in History lectures detailing the untold stories that affect our understanding of diversity and inclusion in the community and the world at large. Deeply researched and crafted stories with a personable, impactful approach and a dedication to truth and perspective.
Action
We all have different paths… mine is the educator. Those who don’t understand history are destined to repeat it. These stories and workshops are meant to generate conversations within communities. You can’t create a solution to a problem you don’t understand. Action begins when the community comes together with a shared understanding.
Let’s get to work!