African American History Spotlight: Wilhelmina P. Johnson

Introduction

Display the following prompt for students to answer as they enter the classroom:

"What does it mean to be a civic leader?"

Allow all students to record a response. When finished, show students the following quote:

"Who is going to do it baby? We have to. No one is overlooking us. We are overlooking ourselves."

Explain to students that today's lesson is inspired by December's South Carolina African American History Calendar honoree, Wilhelmina P. Johnson, a civic leader who urged people to take ownership of their community's challenges and work collectively for progress.

Spotlight Graphic Organizer

Have students watch the video for the South Carolina African American History Calendar December Honoree. As they watch, students should complete the Spotlight Graphic Organizer.

Students will record the following information:

• Background: Where is Wilhelmina P. Johnson from? What events led her to become a civic leader?
• Education: Where did Wilhelmina P. Johnson attend school? What degree(s) did she earn?
• Accomplishments: What honors and accomplishments did Wilhelmina P. Johnson achieve?
• Impact: What impact has Wilhelmina P. Johnson had on the community?

Students may use the resources provided or research additional information if needed.

Leadership Traits and Civic Impact

Have students work independently, in small groups, or pairs to complete the graphic organizer to identify and analyze the following leadership traits portrayed by Wilhelmina P. Johnson.

• Visionary Thinking
• Advocacy for Social Justice
• Educational Leadership
• Resilience
• Empowerment of Women

Students can create a short presentation using chart paper or digital tools to present their findings.

Connecting Past to Present

Allow students to respond to the following questions in the graphic organizer and use them to guide a discussion on how the past connects to the present. Encourage students to share examples of modern civic leaders who embody Johnson's values.

• What lessons can today's civic leaders learn from Wilhelmina P. Johnson?
• How do her contributions inspire us to address current civic issues?
• What civic issues in your community could benefit from similar leadership?

Conclusion

To end the lesson have students respond to the following reflection question:

• What is one quality of Wilhelmina P. Johnson that you admire, and how can you apply it in your life?