Etta Johnson was a regular fixture at City Council & was known to speak her truth and work alongside community leaders. Etta was a passionate advocate. She stood boldly for mothers who lost their children to gun violence, for the Black community in Oakland, for the unhoused, and for housing affordability amid the challenges of gentrification. When I met her at a Council meeting, she told me that I looked like her family, it turns out later we discovered that we were cousins. She was born on Nov 24, 1959, in Oakland to parents who migrated from Louisiana during the Great Black Migration. Etta attended Brookfield Elementary School, Madison Junior High School, Castlemont High School, graduating from Oakland High School. She also attended Laney College in the cosmetology program and she completed computer training. Etta built a diverse and vibrant career, working for Levi Strauss & Co., the U.S. Mint, and the Circle Star Theater. During her time at the theater, she had the opportunity to meet countless celebrities and musicians, reflecting her deep connection to entertainment, fashion, and culture. Her talent extended into the world of music and entertainment. Etta contributed to wardrobe styling for artists such as The Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson. She spent time backstage at concerts for some of the most iconic artists of her era, including LTD, Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, René & Angela. She also joined the Purple Rain tour from 1984 to 1985.
My name is Alicia Lander, and I am here today to honor my mother, Etta Mae Johnson, a lifelong Oakland resident whose life reflects the very communities this city has always fought to uplift.
My mother’s journey was not without challenges, but like so many in Oakland, her story is one of resilience, humanity, and belonging. She was present in this city’s spaces, connected to its people, and part of its history in ways that matter, even when those contributions are not always formally recognized.
Mayor Lee, your leadership has always centered equity, dignity, and making sure no one is invisible. Today, I am asking for that same spirit of recognition.
I respectfully request that the City of Oakland proclaim November 24, her birthday, as Etta Mae Johnson Day, and issue a formal proclamation that can be presented at her memorial service.
This request is not only about honoring my mother. It is about affirming that every life in Oakland holds value, and that dignity in remembrance should extend to all.
Thank you for your leadership, your compassion, and your consideration.
Etta Johnson was a regular fixture at City Council & was known to speak her truth and work alongside community leaders. Etta was a passionate advocate. She stood boldly for mothers who lost their children to gun violence, for the Black community in Oakland, for the unhoused, and for housing affordability amid the challenges of gentrification. When I met her at a Council meeting, she told me that I looked like her family, it turns out later we discovered that we were cousins. She was born on Nov 24, 1959, in Oakland to parents who migrated from Louisiana during the Great Black Migration. Etta attended Brookfield Elementary School, Madison Junior High School, Castlemont High School, graduating from Oakland High School. She also attended Laney College in the cosmetology program and she completed computer training. Etta built a diverse and vibrant career, working for Levi Strauss & Co., the U.S. Mint, and the Circle Star Theater. During her time at the theater, she had the opportunity to meet countless celebrities and musicians, reflecting her deep connection to entertainment, fashion, and culture. Her talent extended into the world of music and entertainment. Etta contributed to wardrobe styling for artists such as The Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson. She spent time backstage at concerts for some of the most iconic artists of her era, including LTD, Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, René & Angela. She also joined the Purple Rain tour from 1984 to 1985.
Good afternoon Mayor Lee and Councilmembers,
My name is Alicia Lander, and I am here today to honor my mother, Etta Mae Johnson, a lifelong Oakland resident whose life reflects the very communities this city has always fought to uplift.
My mother’s journey was not without challenges, but like so many in Oakland, her story is one of resilience, humanity, and belonging. She was present in this city’s spaces, connected to its people, and part of its history in ways that matter, even when those contributions are not always formally recognized.
Mayor Lee, your leadership has always centered equity, dignity, and making sure no one is invisible. Today, I am asking for that same spirit of recognition.
I respectfully request that the City of Oakland proclaim November 24, her birthday, as Etta Mae Johnson Day, and issue a formal proclamation that can be presented at her memorial service.
This request is not only about honoring my mother. It is about affirming that every life in Oakland holds value, and that dignity in remembrance should extend to all.
Thank you for your leadership, your compassion, and your consideration.