Editorial: A leading advocate for the disenfranchised

After nine years, Tom Johnson leaves Crime and Justice.

Last update: January 18, 2008 - 6:37 PM

When Tom Johnson left his successful law practice to run the Council on Crime and Justice nine years ago, the Minneapolis nonprofit was highly respected for its outreach and service work in the criminal justice system.

Johnson, who announced last week that he is stepping down as president of the organization to return to the law firm Gray Plant Moody, refocused the council with an emphasis on research and advocacy.

That work put a spotlight on the problem of racial disparities in the criminal justice system in Minnesota, leading to important reforms and policies.

Johnson is known as a tireless advocate for the disenfranchised and a passionate community leader who sacrificed nine lucrative years of legal practice because he believes in the value of community service.

Although the council has accomplished a great deal with Johnson at the helm, he's leaving the organization knowing there's more work to be done. A key issue for the community is the increasingly important role that criminal records for even minor offenses can play in preventing those who are trying to make a new life from finding housing and employment.

"You can't take away the hope and initiative that people would have to turn their lives around," Johnson said.

Johnson will return to his law practice on March 1, and he deserves the community's thanks. We hope the next leader of the council will see the value in building on Johnson's important legacy.

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