[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 148 (Friday, August 21, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E775-E776]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING DARNELL ``DEEJAY'' JOHNSON AS CONSTITUENT OF THE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE LEVIN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 21, 2020

  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

[[Page E776]]

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.

                          ____________________