By Jennifer Black, Prison Radio, Director of Political Education
Johanna Fernandez was “a force of life” and it’s hard to believe she has marched on. She left us way too soon.
For years Johanna devoted her energy, scholarship, and organizing to ensuring that Mumia’s case remained in the public eye and that his voice continued to reach the world.
Listen to Mumia remembering Johanna.
At her memorial gathering, one of her three brothers encouraged us to remember that her legacy is not behind her, but rests on our ability to carry it forward. It’s not “Johanna was” but rather, “Johanna is.”
Johanna loved Mumia with steadfast dedication and staunch advocacy. One of Mumia’s closest friends – they talked on the phone just about every single day.
She was a powerful and passionate orator.
Watch Johanna speak at a press conference in 2019 on behalf of Mumia
Democracy Now! honors her life, legacy, and scholarship
In Pam Africa’s moving tribute she declared that Johanna “came to the front lines” for Mumia, energizing the movement at an important moment. Her advocacy and support will be sorely missed.
One meaningful way we can honor her commitment is by picking up where she left off, carrying her legacy of activism forward, and by reminding Mumia that he does not walk alone.
If you’ve ever been moved by his words or inspired by the movement that has sustained him, please take a few moments to write him a letter.
Smart Communications/PADOC
Mumia Abu-Jamal, AM 8335
SCI Mahanoy
c/o PO Box 33028
St Petersburg, FL 33733
Your words of encouragement, solidarity, and care can bring comfort during this difficult time and reaffirm that the community fighting alongside him remains as strong as ever.
Johanna reminds us that fighting for Mumia’s freedom has enormous implications:
“So when you ask the question, “Why do we need to be with Mumia?” it’s because if we allow the state to get away with murder in the case of Mumia Abu-Jamal, we’re giving the state license to do the same with people who dare stand up for justice today.”
Johanna leaves a void that cannot be replaced. May we never forget her. May we understand the important lesson she taught us: unwavering solidarity is one of the most powerful acts of love we can offer.
Johanna is.
Look for her in the whirlwind. Look for her in our radical future.
In the spirit of Johanna Fernandez, ¡Vamos pa’lante!
