Mission
The Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute is a non-partisan voice that shares the stories of our Constitution and our Judiciary through programs that illuminate issues and perspectives, foster thoughtful and civil discourse, and inspire our national community in our nation’s never-ending pursuit of a more perfect union.
ABout
Founded by admirers of Judge Frank Johnson, the Johnson Institute demonstrates through its programming the importance of the U.S. Constitution and the independent judiciary. It is a non-political, non- advocacy organization. Working in partnership with the Middle District of Alabama, the Institute facilitates public access to the historic Frank Johnson Courthouse in Montgomery, helping to host over a thousand visitors since beginning operations in 2019.
The Institute organizes programs to foster understanding of the Constitution. Its Johnson Institute Scholars program equips professionals from education and other fields with deeper knowledge of the Constitution by examining historic court cases. Civil Discourse and Difficult Decisions workshops teach high school students about civil discourse and the legal system. Further, the Institute preserves remarkable stories of justice through its Oral History Project, capturing accounts of those who knew Judge Johnson or were affected by his rulings.
Through its programs and events, the Johnson Institute encourages civil dialogue and the exchange of knowledge in a respectful and open manner, particularly related to the Constitution, the judicial branch of government, and our lives.
Our Logo
The Johnson Institute’s logo of an eagle shielding a dove symbolizes the role of the U.S. Constitution. When the Constitution is upheld, it protects our rights and liberties under the rule of law. Through his landmark Constitutional rulings, Judge Johnson upheld the Constitution, and in the process protected the rights of American citizens who had been mistreated.
