For Immediate Release-January 19, 2018
Deborah Gonzalez, State Representative for District 117 presented a GA House Resolution at the 2nd annual Athens MLK Day Parade and Music Fest 2018
Athens, Ga- On Monday, January 15th, 2018, the 2nd annual Athens MLK Day Parade and Music Fest-hosted by United Group of Artist and Athens Anti-discrimination (non-profit partner), attracted thousands’ in downtown Athens. On a day for honoring the late Martin Luther King Jr. organizers-Knowa and Mokah-Jasmine Johnson of the MLK Day Parade and Festival also awarded several of Athens Black Community leaders such as Mrs. Lacy Johnson renowned educator, Mr. Vernon Payne who served on Athens Clarke County School District Board for more that 20 years, Mr. Harold Rittenberry renowned artist and sculpture, and Dr. Walter Allen Sr. noted music educator.
In addition, at the conclusion of the Athens MLK Day Jr. Parade and Fest 2018, Deborah Gonzalez, State Representative for District 117 presented a GA House Resolution to Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine- Johnson that commends and honors their work.
Gonzalez states, “Honoring King encourages us to continue the efforts of those that came before us–especially those who lost everything in the process.” “Nearly 50 years later, there are individuals like Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine Johnson who are working diligently, tirelessly, and without the recognition they deserve.” “Their efforts help to shape a more just and fair community for all to thrive and grow in.” The full transcript of the GA House Resolution follows below:
A RESOLUTION
Commending and recognizing Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine Johnson for their outstanding community service; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS: Mr. Knowa D. Johnson and Mrs. Mokah Jasmine Johnson are exceptional citizens who have diligently served the State of Georgia and their local community, Athens, Georgia, with their outstanding community service. As activists, speakers, educators, and entrepreneurs, Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine Johnson have created many opportunities for other members within their community to better empower themselves and find success.
WHEREAS: Mr. Knowa D. Johnson and Mrs. Mokah Jasmine Johnson have devoted their time and talent to multiple establishments throughout Athens and the State of Georiga, including founding the United Group of Artists producing company, establishing the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement, founding the VIP Girlz Dance and Leadership Program, co-founding the Athens Hip Hop Awards, and organizing and producing the Athens MLK Jr. Parade; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Knowa D. Johnson and Mrs. Mokah Jasmine Johnson have created opportunities to highlight, educate, empower, and provide a voice for members of their community, especially disadvantaged and traditionally marginalized groups and individuals; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Knowa D. Johnson and Mrs. Mokah Jasmine Johnson have established themselves as leaders within Athens-Clarke County, and it is an honor to recognize them for their efforts and contributions to our state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine Johnson for their outstanding community service, local community engagement, and extend sincere best wishes for continued success in empowering others.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Knowa D. Johnson and Mokah Jasmine Johnson.”
The MLK Day Holiday was a busy weekend for this husband-wife team; they also co-produced a sold-out show Athens in Harmony designed to break racial barriers and improve race relations. So what’s next? Co-founder and President of Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement will release her first book Spirit of an Activist, “Stop Sitting on the Sidelines” February 21, 2018. In the meantime, you can find Knowa or Mokah Jasmine Johnson in their community advocating for racial and social justice.