Dr. Tiffany M. Johnson Talks Building Community Through Mentorship and Representation
On a recent episode of “We Live in Color,” host Deaunte Damper welcomed Dr. Tiffany M. Johnson to explore her extensive journey as an author, community leader, and tireless advocate for youth development. Dr. Johnson, the Senior Director of Operations at Atlantic Street Center in Seattle, shared how her personal history and the guidance of mentors have fueled her mission to uplift youth.
A Journey Defined by Mentorship and Identity
Dr. Johnson discussed the importance of authenticity and representation within the queer community. As a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority for 21 years and the first openly lesbian member to go through her college chapter, she emphasized the need to prioritize lesbian voices.
"I only know how to show up one way," she said, regarding her commitment to living as her true self.
Literary Works and the Blueprint for Youth
Dr. Johnson highlighted her two books, which serve as tools for both youth and community workers:
“I Be in Them Atlantic Streets:” This activity and coloring book was born from an epiphany during a summer academy where Dr. Johnson realized the children did not see themselves represented in mainstream media. It features affirmations and illustrations representing various abilities, languages, and ethnicities.
“I Am a Parks and Rec Kid:” Described as a blueprint for community engagement, this memoir details how community development shaped Dr. Johnson’s life. It includes a workbook section for those serving youth, adults, or elders.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Dr. Johnson also touched upon her resilience through severe health trials. She shared that she is partially blind and has dealt with a major cancer scare that was ultimately revealed to be a misdiagnosis of a fibroid. Harnessing this obstacle for the greater good, she used her experience to urge other Black women to seek second opinions and remain vocal about their health journeys.
A Call to Community Action
With conviction, Dr. Johnson concluded with a call to action, encouraging viewers to support the 116-year-old Atlantic Street Center and its diverse programs, ranging from behavioral health to early learning.
"Be in community, pay it forward, and give back,” she said.
Learn more about the Atlantic Street Center here, and check out Dr. Johnson’s books here.
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