Councilmember Johnson makes statement regarding Houston Firefighters noose incident

"The noose is a symbol of Hatred that reflects a very painful time in this country’s past. I am sure that you are aware of this history. I am very disappointed that the action of one firefighter has created such a negative reflection of our first responders. I do not agree with how this situation was handled, I believe the reprimand to be insufficient to address the wrong that was done by Captain Smith. The City of Houston Firefighters must ensure that every member of the Department feels safe from being racially intimidated."

"There is one thing that we can never take back; a lost opportunity. This Department now has an opportunity to utilize this incident to show the Fire Department’s commitment to ensuring there is no hatred shown behind the shield. We must salvage what we can in using these incidents to correctly address incidents like this in the future. We must institute a Zero Tolerance regarding racial symbols, slurs and gestures. I am extremely concerned that the light discipline of Captain Smith has sent the wrong message to other firefighters who may be inclined to use these methods to intimidate men of color."

"Our policy must be that there will be no room in the Department for this behavior."

For media interviews call 832-978-0939

JUNETEENTH OLDIES DANCE to be co-hosted by Councilmember Johnson and KTSU this Friday!

Do you have dance moves? Do you like the oldies? Well, you are invited to be the special guest of Councilmember Jarvis Johnson as he co-hosts the Juneteenth Friday Night Oldies Dance along with KTSU. Come and win the dance competition prizes!

The event will take place in June 19, 2009 at the CWA building located at 1730 Jefferson Street. The dance will last from 8pm until 1:00am. Ticket Price: $15 for TSU members and $20 for non-members.

For more information call 832-393-3000

History Note: Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. State of Texas in 1865. Celebrated on June 19, the term is a portmanteau of June and nineteenth, and is recognized as a state holiday in 31 of the United States.

Download Councilmember Johnson's June 2009 Newsletter~Leading By Example!

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To All Youth of Houston: "Have a Great, Productive and Fun Summer"

Councilmember Johnson would like to congratulate all students who had a great school your. Please have a safe, productive and FUN summer!

Photo Highlights: Senior Citizens Prom hosted by Councilmember Johnson!

Councilmember Jarvis Johnson makes statement regarding Brock Park: "I am not in support of the closing of Brock Park and will never be"

For Immediate Release

June 11, 2009

Contact(s)

The Office of Councilmember Johnson

832-393-3009

Jesse Muhammad

832-978-0939


Press Statement From Houston Councilmember Jarvis Johnson Regarding Brock Park

HOUSTON, Texas— The Amendment as proposed to me was to be a detailed study of all City of Houston Parks for the purpose of reviewing revenues. I was at no time consulted regarding the closure of Brock Park either directly or indirectly as a result of this survey. To the contrary I have been very supportive of Parks that provide not only environmental health but an aid to our children and all the constituents of District B. I believe this administration has shown a commitment to Parks and Recreation within the City of Houston. Brock Park has been in existence in my District since 1952 as the first golf course to be managed by the City of Houston. It is very important to my constituents and therefore very important to me.

I would like to make it clear that I am not in support of the closing of Brock Park and will never be!! Brock Park Golf Course serves as an attractive centerpiece to spur good sustainable housing development that will encourage commercial development. All this coupled together brings the northeast side of town into a new era of revitalization which enhances the quality of life for all of its residents. As a Council Member of District B I am the voice for my constituents at City Hall, I hold it as one of my most sacred duties as a public servant. I am always supportive of research to the study proposed yesterday during the presentation of Budget Amendments, no matter how displaced it was.

In the future I would encourage anyone who would like to take part in something that may adversely affect a community and specifically the constituents of District B to consult with me, speak to the community; We cannot be so irresponsible do not blindly act without getting the input from the community.

“It is always important to me as a city official to listen to the concerns and ideas of my constituents,” said Councilmember Johnson. “The goal is to support and empower residents to take responsibility in building up their own neighborhoods. Brock Park is much more then a Golf Course to my constituents. I will not sit idly by and allow it be destroyed.

For Media Interviews call 832-393-3009 or 832-978-0939

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Councilmember Johnson delivers keynote address at the Girls & Boys Preparatory Academy's Middle School Graduation

On Saturday, May 30, 2009, Councilmember Johnson delivered the keynote address at the middle school graduation ceremony for Girls & Boys Preparatory Academy. The ceremony was held at the Riceville Church on S. Gessener.

"Take your future seriously students", said the Councilmember. "And know that although grades are important, they do not mean everything because grades can't truly define who you are. Be the best you."

Congratulations students!