Eric Johnson becomes Dallas’ Second African-American Mayor
DALLAS – Eric Johnson the son of West Dallas who has served his community in the Texas House of Representatives for nearly a decade, was elected the 60th Mayor of Dallas in a sweeping double-digit victory last week.
Johnson defeated Dallas City Council Member Scott Griggs, 56 percent to 44 percent, to become the second African-American Mayor in Dallas history.
Johnson will be sworn into office as Mayor on Monday. At the age of 43, he will be one of the youngest mayors of a major American city, and he will also be one of the most prominent African-American elected officials in the country.
“Every single time, without exception, that I have stood before the voters of Dallas, I have put my faith in two places; in the Good Lord above and in the voters, “Johnson told hundreds of supporters in his victory speech at the Fairmont Hotel. “And in every case, I have not been let down.”
Johnson was the last of nine candidates for Mayor to enter the race. He quickly put together one of the strongest, most diverse and most widely respected coalitions supporters ever assembled in a Dallas municipal election.
Many voters found inspiration in Johnson’s personal story. After he was identified as a gifted student during first grade at C.F. Carr Elementary in West Dallas, Johnson’s parents enrolled him in a joint venture between the Boys Clubs and Greenhill School. This opportunity allowed him to attend Greenhill School beginning in the fall of 1983.
Afterwards, he would go on to graduate from Greenhill School in 1994 and then receive an undergraduate degree with honors from Harvard University. He later earned a graduate degree from Princeton University and a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.
Johnson returned home to Dallas, where today he is an attorney. He and his wife, Nikki have two sons, William and George.
In his victory speech, Johnson described his win as proof of what’s possible in Dallas.
“If you work hard and you allow the people of this city to do what they naturally want to do, which is to help you, and if you will just open yourself up to receive that blessing that is the people of the city’s help, the sky is the limit for anybody in this city,” Johnson said.
“I’m living proof, because there’s nothing special about me.” Throughout the mayoral campaign, Johnson stressed the importance of overcoming a growing sense of divisiveness on the Dallas City Council. “I decided in this case, and I’ve decided so many times in the past: Why wait?” Johnson said.
“Why hope somebody else will come along and solve the problem? If you’re capable of solving it, step up to the plate and offer yourself as a solution. And that’s how I got into this race” he added.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
