Harry
Johnson
Nominated by Julie Reiskin
"Harry Johnson's contribution to access to justice was profound and sincere, reflecting his deep commitment to equity and fairness in society. Throughout his life, Harry actively engaged in various organizations and initiatives aimed at advancing the cause of justice for marginalized communities.
Firstly, Harry's involvement with the National Organization of Client Advocates (NOCA) and his role as treasurer exemplify his dedication to advocating for the rights of individuals who may not have had access to adequate legal representation. As a board member of Indiana Legal Services, Inc., and serving two terms as president, Harry played a pivotal role in ensuring that legal assistance was accessible to those in need, particularly low-income individuals and underserved communities.
Additionally, Harry's service on the board of directors of the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA) underscores his commitment to promoting equal access to justice nationwide. Serving on the NLADA Civil Council and chairing the NLADA Client Council demonstrated Harry's hands-on involvement in shaping policies and initiatives that aimed to address systemic barriers to justice and enhance legal services for marginalized populations.
Furthermore, Harry's engagement with grassroots organizations such as the NAACP and the United Steel Workers Union reflects his understanding of the intersectionality of social justice issues. By actively participating in these organizations, Harry contributed to amplifying the voices of disenfranchised communities and advocating for systemic reforms to address inequalities within the legal system.
Moreover, Harry's involvement in his local church community, particularly his service on the Parker Usher Board and the Trustee Board, highlights his holistic approach to social justice. By engaging with his church community, Harry not only provided spiritual support but also fostered a sense of solidarity and collective action in addressing societal injustices.
Overall, Harry Johnson's legacy in advancing access to justice is characterized by his tireless advocacy, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of society. Through his various roles and contributions, Harry left an indelible mark on the legal profession and the broader pursuit of social equity and justice. His dedication to ensuring that all individuals have equal access to legal resources and representation will continue to inspire future generations to uphold the principles of fairness and equality in our society."
Nominated by Jon Larramore
"Harry Johnson (1941-2024) was a national and state leader in increasing access to justice. He was a member of the board of directors of Indiana Legal Services, the statewide LSC grantee, and its predecessor from 1974 until his death in 2024, 50 years. He served as board president twice.
Harry set the respectful and deliberative tone of ILS board meetings for decades, and he mentored several generations of board members. Although he died in 2024, his impact on ILS and the board will be longstanding because of his guiding influence on so many board members. His impact was illustrated when board members traveled from all corners of the state to attend Harry’s funeral.
On the national level, Harry was a two-term member of the board of directors of the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, served two terms on the NLADA civil council, one term on the NLADA Client Council, and served as convenor of the NLADA Client Section from 2001-2008. In 2018, he received the NLADA’s Mary Ellen Hamilton Award, recognizing a community advocate who provided extraordinary support for the delivery of legal assistance to low-income people and for increased involvement of low-income people in the fight for equal justice. He was also treasurer of the National Organization of Client Advocates.
Harry’s career was spent at United Technologies Carrier, and he was a proud member of the United Steelworkers Union. He was an officer in the A. Philip Randolph Institute and National Coalition of Black Trade Unionists. He was an active member of his church, Bethel A.M.E. and sang in the Indiana A.M.E. Lay Male Chorus. He was a life member of the NAACP.
Harry was born in Columbus, Georgia, where he graduated from high school. He migrated to Indiana to attend Purdue University and lived in Indianapolis for the rest of his life. He was the proud parent of Harry Bernard Johnson, Travae Johnson, and Jeremiah Johnson, the husband of Patricia Johnson, and a beloved grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle. He was a devoted gardener."
Nominated by Sharon Sergent on behalf of Arizona Community Legal Services
"Lillian O. Johnson was born and raised in Oklahoma. She took her first steps towards her life-long dream of becoming a champion for justice as an attorney when she graduated from Howard University and received her law degree from the University of Chicago. During her time at law school, Lillian demonstrated her determination to work with legal aid. Although not selected initially, Lillian showed up on the first day to intern at the Mandel Legal Aid Clinic. This was an opportunity she would not let bypass her. Her commitment and take charge efforts paid off and she joined the clinic.
After graduation in 1975, Lillian became a staff attorney and managing attorney at the Legal Assistance Foundation of Chicago. There, she learned not only how to advocate effectively for those she served, but also for those with whom she worked. Lillian rounded out this experience as assistant to the director/regional training coordinator of the Chicago Regional Office of the Legal Services Corporation (LSC). At LSC, Lillian promoted the delivery of legal services programs and participated in activities to promote the provision of technical assistance to legal services programs.
In 1982, she accepted the position of executive director of Community Legal Services (CLS) in Arizona. Lillian did not rest on her laurels. She led CLS’s expansion and innovation of legal services to Arizona communities. Lillian promoted the use of technology to support advocates and better serve applicants and clients.
Lillian served on many boards, including the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, the National Equal Justice Library and was the liaison to the ABA Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigent Defendants. She tirelessly advocated to ensure the client voice was heard and acted upon on the local and national level. Lillian strongly believes that legal aid programs must reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. She put that into action by becoming a founding member of the African American Project Directors Association (AAPDA). Through AAPDA and legal services generally, Lillian has recruited and mentors Executive Directors. She is a trusted sounding board and never fails to give kind, straightforward feedback.
Lillian has received many honors over her storied career. In 2011, Lillian was honored as a White House Champion of Change as part of President Barack Obama’s Winning the Future Initiative; wherein they highlighted her everlasting commitment to access to justice throughout her career. In 2022, the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education established the Lillian Johnson Career Achievement Award presented to advocates who have spent much of their career dedicated to access to justice. The award recognizes advocates who have impacted not only individual clients in need, but also the system of justice.
After 40 years leading CLS through victories and challenges, Lillian retired as the executive director. She remains an ardent defender of the rights of individuals and families with low incomes and continues to support the fight for access to justice in Arizona and nationally. Lillian’s commitment to legal services and those we serve is unsurpassed."
