Ken Johnson

What is your title and company name? 
Ken Johnson is a Vice President of Loomis, Sayles & Company, an asset management firm based in Boston. Ken is a Product Manager for the Loomis Sayles full discretion fixed income team.

Who or what has inspired you? 
I would have to say my biggest source of inspiration has been my parents.  I was raised in the Midwest (St. Louis) by my mother Geraldine (Gerry) and my step-father (Rev. James Paine).  They were not afforded the opportunity to pursue formal educations, but they made the most of their life experiences and were firm believers in the value of hard work and the power of prayer.  I was raised with the core principles of honesty, loyalty, dependability, empathy and respect for others; values that guide me to this day and that I have tried to instill in my own son.  I lost my stepfather in 2011, but my mother is still living in St. Louis and we talk almost daily.  I have never met two more incredible people, and they continue to be my greatest inspiration.

What does racial equity and social justice mean to you?  
I believe strongly that we have to address economic disparities to achieve racial equity and social justice. Period.  In recent years we have seen an increase in racial tensions across the country and the world.  The events that contributed to the social unrest simply underscore the economic and other disparities that already existed for Black and Hispanic communities.  I know that we can do better as a country, and I'm very encouraged by all the signs of progress.  When I think of racial equity and social justice, I am reminded of the work that is still needed to bring structural change to policies that will close the education gap, the health gap, and just as importantly, the wealth gap.

What is your favorite book, poetry, documentary or other resource on Black history?  
I am a huge baseball fan and a student of history.  One of my favorite books is "Opening Day", by Jonathan Eig.  It is the story of Jackie Robinson's first season in major-league baseball when he made his debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.  The book places the baseball that occurred in that year within the larger context of the civil rights movement and changing American society.  I have a photo of Jackie Robinson on the wall in my home office.  I have the greatest respect and admiration for him, and his wife Rachel Robinson, for their ability to persevere and thrive during that period with dignity and class.

When I dream in Black, I...
understand the history and legacy of a resilient race of people, my people; a people who despite the obstacles found a way forward.  BHM is always a time to reflect on this, "...out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last, where the white gleam of our bright star is cast!"