Description: For anyone with a passion for social justice, advocacy, or volunteer work--especially new and future activists--this set of tender, lyrical letters from an activist to his daughter offers inspiration and support for bringing transformational change. Here is Brian Johnson's profound answer to the question, "How do we do good work well?"
Brief description:
Brian C. Johnson has served in education and advocacy, community organizing, and political activism at local and national levels for two decades, dedicated to the American promise of fairness for all. He's been featured on CNN and in The Washington Post, USA Today, and The New York Times. Johnson currently serves as the CEO of Equality Illinois, one of the nation's most successful LGBTQ civil rights organizations. He lives with his husband and their daughter in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago.
Review Quotes:
"Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, The Work Is the Work should be considered critically essential and important reading for anyone wanting to engage in political activism." --Midwest Book Review
"Brian Johnson lays out an intimate and urgent guide for LGBTQ+ activism, informed by twenty-five years of struggle in the fight for social, racial, and economic justice. As the LGBTQ+ community confronts a dire state of emergency, Brian's compelling insights function as both a clarion call to action and a strategic blueprint for structural change." --Kelley Robinson, president, Human Rights Campaign
"Brian Johnson is a compelling storyteller and a gifted writer. Through a combination of humor, wisdom, and his generously shared personal stories, Brian creates a guidebook for advocacy and life that can benefit anyone." --Imani Rupert-Gordon, executive director, National Center for Lesbian Rights
"Brian has had a tremendous impact over the years. He brings life to stories in accessible and inspiring ways. To be able to learn from Brian's decades-long work in advocacy and social justice is a treat." --Brady Walkinshaw, CEO, Earth Alliance
"As a new generation rises up and prepares to lead in our statehouses, Congress, and other areas of power, it is vital that we provide them with the necessary tools and mentorship so they may continue to advance the fight for justice against gun extremists, white supremacists, and others who threaten progress. This book is a must-have for anyone who is ready to roll up their sleeves and make a real difference." --Kathleen Sances, president and CEO, Gun Violence Prevention PAC IL (G-PAC)
"Whether you are considering activism for the very first time, are a veteran who wants to take their leadership to the next level, or simply want to be a better human, this book is for you. The lessons in The Work Is the Work are timeless and are needed now more than ever." --Meg Ansara, cofounder, Organizing Corps 2020
"The Work Is the Work is for anyone who wants to be good at what they do--be it nonprofit, for-profit, or just being a good human. Attacking systemic and structural challenges like civil rights, racism, criminal justice reform, or gender-based violence is a long, difficult, and at times lonely road when your passion and values are met with resistance to change. The easy-to-digest stories and personal anecdotes give you your own friend in the struggle, reminding you at every page that you aren't alone. While the work of social change may feel never-ending, the fight to make this world a better place begins with a deep-seated belief that all of us have the potential to change the world--right from where we are." --Toi Hutchinson, former Illinois State Senator
"Brian delivers keen insights and strategies through stories that illuminate and inspire. His lessons are rooted in years of experience and reflect his deep love for community. I've gotten to see Brian in action, and I'm thrilled that his book will make his accessible and easy-to-digest advice available to newcomers and veterans alike." --Nadine Smith, Executive Director, Equality Florida and TIME 100 Honoree (2022)