[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 135 (Thursday, October 2, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO JAMES JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. EARL F. HILLIARD

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 2, 1997

  Mr. HILLIARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. James 
Johnson of Birmingham, AL. Mr. Johnson recently passed away, yet his 
legacy will remain a shining example to our community for decades to 
come.
  Mr. Johnson was born in Sumpter County, AL, and was educated in the 
public school system of Alabama. He was a hardworking man who spent 
decades working in the steel mills of Ensley, AL.
  Above all, Mr. Johnson was a brave and courageous man. He was the 
first black ever elected as a constable, and he served over 20 years.
  While James Johnson was confronted with the evils of segregation and 
legalized Jim Crow laws over 50 years ago, he did something about it. 
Mr. Johnson stood up and was counted by volunteering to help register 
black voters throughout Alabama during a period of history when he 
knew, good and well, that his actions might cost him his life. However, 
Mr. Johnson was more concerned about righting a wrong and correcting an 
injustice, than about his personal safety.
  I will personally miss Mr. Johnson. He was a great and noble man. My 
sincere condolences go to his wonderful wife, Mrs. Bernice C. Johnson 
of Birmingham and all of his children, family, and friends.

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