In honor of Women's History Month, I am placing caches to honor Minnesota women who exhibit strength and courage. KaeJae Johnson is one such woman.
In May of 2019 by Kimetha (KaeJae) Johnson founded Renters of Color Collective (ROCC) with the intent of creating a voice and sanctuary for the residents of color in West Saint Paul, Minnesota and to ensure they have access to knowledge, programs, assistance, and community connection while impacting policies at the local level that promotes healthy communities for residents of color, renters and those struggling with mental health barriers.
In 2020, KaeJae ran for the office of mayor of West Saint Paul against Dan Napier, a popular, longterm resident where only 3.9% of the residents are black. She dared to speak up to give voice to those often ignored by city government. She said,
As the first black candidate to run in West St. Paul, I’m committed to expanding opportunities for women and BIPOC owned businesses through creating speciality grants that will attract and build deeper diversity within our business community.
I wholeheartedly believe our city can be the example that shows the world what it means to be truly inclusive in all areas.We have been missing the connection to the heart of this city for a long time and that happens to be renters. I’m advocating for renter because I am a right now renter, facing right now barriers that most renters suffer through silently due to the lack of representation on our city council.
I see things in a different light because I have different lived experiences which is the very view needed at our city table.
KaeJae lost the 2020 election only to run in 2022 for city council, again against a popular long time resident, Pat Armon. She did well in both races yet lost both. Today she continues to work for those facing barriers through multiple food giveaways, a household essential drive, and 4 annual community events including the ROCC the City Back2School Bash. ROCC has distributed over 150,000 pounds of food to families in West Saint Paul apartment complexes in partnership with local unions, organizations and churches.
Placed outside this business with permission