Council President Kenyatta Johnson represents the 2nd Council District, including parts of Center City, South Philadelphia, and Southwest Philadelphia. As a dedicated public servant, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving the quality of life for his constituents through effective policymaking, community engagement, and advocacy.
Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Council President Johnson’s journey into public service began in 1998 with the start of his Peace Not Guns initiative which was founded after the tragic murder of his cousin. It was then that he began to organize with other grassroots organizations to raise awareness through anti-gun violence events and programs in the city.
In 2008, Council President Johnson was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing the 186th Legislative District. During his tenure, his legislative accomplishments include advocating for increased funding for public schools, supporting initiatives to reduce gun violence, and working on policies to stimulate job creation and economic growth in his district.
Four years later, Council President Johnson transitioned from state to local government, after being elected to Philadelphia City Council in 2011. As a councilmember, he has championed legislation to create more affordable housing units; supported small and diverse businesses; engaged the next generation leaders by advocating for youth; and pushed for sustainable development practices. His efforts have significantly contributed to the revitalization of neighborhoods across his district.
Council President Johnson’s leadership was recognized by his peers when he was elected as council president in 2024. In this role, he continues to prioritize the needs of his constituents, working tirelessly to address issues such as poverty, food insecurity, mental health issues, and education disparities.
Council President Johnson is also a staunch advocate for economic development, job growth and creation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion in both the private and public sectors to move the city of Philadelphia forward.
His strategic vision and collaborative approach have been instrumental in fostering partnerships between the city government, local businesses, and community organizations.
Council President Johnson is a product of the School District of Philadelphia. He holds a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree from Mansfield University and a Master’s degree in Government Administration from the Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania. He also has completed the Governing for Non-Profit Excellence Certificate Program at the Harvard School of Business.
A Pennsylvania State Senate staffer for six years before running for the House of Representatives, Council President Johnson was a former volunteer for AmeriCorps, and a founding staff member of City Year, the non-profit AmeriCorps organization whose primary goal is to build advocacy through citizens’ service.
Beyond his professional achievements, Council President Johnson is also a devoted family man. He is married to Dawn Chavous, and father to sons Isaiah Mandela and Elijah Kwame.