Last November, David J. Johns, CEO and executive director of the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC), considered ceasing his eye-catching nail art.
He contemplated whether foregoing nail polish might lessen the risk he faces, but ultimately remembered the student who inspired him to paint his nails in the first place—a student who wanted self-expression without fear of bullying. Johns, whose nails currently sport colorful designs, dedicates most of his time to advocating for equity, distinguishing it from equality. He explains that while equality means treating everyone the same, equity acknowledges individual needs, likening it to providing different sized boxes for people watching over a fence to ensure equal viewing.
To promote these values, NBJC annually releases its federal policy agenda, advocating for it through initiatives like “Equity Week,” a series of events in D.C. leading up to Juneteenth. The organization also collaborates with local educators to provide cultural-competency training on Black LGBTQ+ communities and with nonprofits like the Boris L. Henson Foundation to offer free mental-health services for Black queer youth.
Aware of the challenges under President Trump’s administration, the 42-year-old Johns draws inspiration from past activists. His home office displays books and art featuring U.S. civil rights leaders and authors—including a feminist and social critic, and former President Barack Obama, with whom Johns worked as executive director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. He cites their work throughout our conversation. Regarding , the Black, gay activist behind the , he states, “When I think about the challenges that we face institutionally, organizationally, or as a country, I’m reminded that this man did things in spite of obstacles erected by people who purported to be his friend. If he could do that with the resources he had, then I can create magnificent and awesome things.”
Johns’ experience as a former elementary school teacher also fuels his commitment. He recounts being at his doctorate graduation when a voice called out for Mr. Johns. He recognized the voice but not the person, only to be introduced to Ernie, who reminded him that when he had taught them in kindergarten, they were Ernestine. This interaction further emphasized the harm caused by politicians restricting discussions of gender and sexuality in schools, and underscored the significance of his work, stating, “If I had capitulated to ignoring, possibly shaming transness or queerness in some way, Ernie might not be here.”