His first goal was to reach the age of 18.
Growing up homeless during the crack epidemic, suffering police brutality, Jermaine Johnson was reckless and angry. He was also a world-class basketball player, and that talent helped him escape the mean streets of LA for the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Haunted by the past, Jermaine ran hard after the dream of sports stardom. But when tragedy struck again, Jermaine found refuge in the love of his family and friends, leading him down an unexpected path to politics.
Now, Dr. Jermaine Johnson fights for his community.
As a member of the South Carolina state legislature, he’s hellbent to give the next generation what he wanted all his life: a place to belong.
The American Dream as we know it is a myth.
When we think of successful people, we imagine them as “self-made.” But in reality, no one makes it on their own. We are all dependent on our community, our family, and our friends. What makes America great isn’t rugged individualism; it’s the love and strength of ordinary people.
Growing up in poverty, Jermaine Johnson’s extraordinary basketball talent was his escape, and he tried to become that self-made man we idolize, with an ego to match. But amid career disappointments and personal tragedy, he learned that it wasn’t the talent that saved him - it was the people who loved him. This humbling realization led him down the unlikely road to politics, where he now fights to create a future where no one is left behind.
Jermaine’s journey is a quest for belonging. To find himself a home - with a big yard - and a secure place in this country.
This is the true story of the American Dream.
TEAM
Adam Bailey
Co-Director, Lead Editor
James Treakle
Co-Director, Editor
Ben Grimes
Assistant Editor