Dedication

This book is dedicated to my parents, Bishop Annie J. Johnson, for her toughness and unapologetic loyalty, and Thurman L. Johnson (deceased), for his care, wit and philosophically engaging conversations.

To my siblings, The Johnson Corporation—Dr. OJ, SJ, SW, and DJ—for their willingness to vet, interview, and keep me honest.

To my two God daughters and son, love you guys—your amazing love gives me the strength I don’t deserve!

To my husband, who ignited full growth, academic curiosity and encouraged racial and social justice—while loving me holistically.

A special thank you to our Manuscript Editor, Sonja Johnson. Her diligence and dedication to this project was overwhelmingly excellent.