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Josie Johnson and Josie Duffy Rice shared lessons of activism from the past, and talked about the importance of social justice activism today and into the future. Josie Johnson says we “need to figure out how to keep the story going” and “have to remember what our ancestors taught— and what they died for— and keep on keepin' on."

Josie Johnson says that not only do we need more justice, fairness and opportunity, particularly in affordable and safe housing for all,  but we need a commitment to believing that social justice work matters and is long-lasting. 

She spoke with her granddaughter Josie Duffy Rice about the importance of passing the torch of activism. Josie Duffy Rice said it is easy to get cynical and give up, but that’s not an option. “You can’t decide nothing is going to change.”

Former Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton moderated the discussion at an October Habitat for Humanity event. Former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman is the president and CEO of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, and he welcomed the speakers and the virtual audience.

Josie Johnson has written her memoir, “Hope in the Struggle.” 

Josie Duffy Rice is president of The Appeal. 

Sharon Sayles Belton is vice president of government affairs and community relations at Thomson Reuters and is former Mayor of Minneapolis. 

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Minnesota civil rights legend Josie Johnson, in conversation with her granddaughter, Josie Duffy Rice. Former Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton facilitated their discussion at an event hosted by Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.

A multi-generational plea for social justice activism from Josie Johnson and her granddaughter

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