Get ready for The Tennessee Three—Reps. Justin Jones, Justin Pearson, and Gloria Johnson—who will be speaking this Thursday at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
This trio captured national attention back in 2023 for their bold activism and commitment to change.
Adding to the excitement, Vice President Kamala Harris is also scheduled to speak, with performances from Pink and The Chicks in the lineup.
AP Photo
Meet The Tennessee Three
Here’s a quick rundown of who they are:
- Justin Jones: Representing Nashville’s District 52, he was expelled but quickly won back his seat in a special election.
- Justin Pearson: He served District 86 in Memphis, faced expulsion, but was reinstated after a special election.
- Gloria Johnson: Representing District 13 in Knoxville, she narrowly escaped expulsion but dealt with heavy criticism.
Their rise to fame came after a heartfelt protest against gun violence on the Tennessee House floor, triggered by a devastating mass shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville. This act of defiance led to a controversial expulsion from the state legislature by a Republican supermajority.
Expulsion Drama
Jones and Pearson, both young Black representatives, were expelled following their protest during a legislative session, drawing widespread condemnation as an overreaction to peaceful demonstration. Many perceived the expulsion as racially motivated, especially since Johnson, the only white member, narrowly avoided being ousted.
Fortunately, local governments quickly reinstated Jones and Pearson, appointing them back to their previous positions.
The Tennessee Three’s Impact
The events surrounding this trio underscored significant political divisions relating to gun control, race, and the right to protest. They emerged as icons of resistance against what many viewed as attempts to silence dissent on critical issues like gun reform.
At the DNC, expect them to deliver powerful messages about justice, equity, and urgent calls for gun reform. Their speeches will likely reflect on their experiences in the Tennessee legislature and emphasize the importance of confronting injustice and advocating for civil rights in America. The discussion may also touch on racial inequalities and the systemic issues they believe contributed to their expulsion.
Their presence at the DNC not only underscores pressing themes of social justice but also highlights the Democratic Party’s commitment to grassroots activism. Their journey, marked by resilience and a drive for change, aligns perfectly with the overarching messages anticipated at the convention.