Remembering Yvonne Johnson: A Leader Who Fought Against Displacement on Behalf of Her Community
A little over ten years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Yvonne Johnson. I was a young attorney asked to meet with the Tenant Association leaders at Brookland Manor, a community comprised of 535 units of affordable housing spread across more than 20 acres. The property owner was proposing a massive redevelopment, and the existing tenants were organizing to ensure they would be included in the new community. What followed was a decade-long struggle involving political, media, and legal battles. I had the privilege of providing legal counsel to the Tenant Association for much of that fight, and during that time, I came to know Ms. Johnson very well.
Yvonne Johnson possessed a quiet strength and dignity that are hard to describe. For many years, she served as the Vice President of the Tenant Association, fighting tirelessly to prevent members of her community from being displaced. During the most stressful times, when tensions were high and nerves frayed, Ms. Johnson was a calming presence—offering clear, straightforward guidance and keeping everyone focused on the task at hand: saving people’s homes.
She led with intelligence and integrity. Never concerned with what was best for herself, Ms. Johnson was always thinking about the broader community and what was best for the collective. Tireless in her advocacy, she frequently volunteered to speak on panels, testify before the Zoning Commission, and meet with Councilmembers to share her vision of a District where every family can thrive and live with dignity.
Ms. Johnson’s ideas and worldview have had a profound impact on me and how I think about development in Washington, DC. I hope my work can carry the same integrity and clarity of thought that were her hallmarks. She will be deeply missed and was loved very much.
If you can, please consider donating to Ms. Johnson’s funeral fund. She leaves behind a wonderful family who is grieving her loss and would greatly appreciate your support in giving her the dignified, heartfelt send-off she deserves. You can donate by clicking HERE.
Will Merrifield