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> LaJoya Johnson
 Local College Student Speaks Out and Advocates for Change
At a time when it is crucial that all voices be heard, LaJoya Johnson, an African-American lesbian has risen above the adversity around her to advocate for change. Through her influential voice, she's working to bridge the gap between people of color and the LGBTQQ community at MSU. "I'm glad I can be a voice for both," said Johnson. Johnson has put a personal face on students of color at a predominantly white school and continues to advocate for education and equality for sexual orientation. Intolerance in her life was felt early on when she was disowned by her father because of her sexuality. Unashamed of who she was, LaJoya made a personal commitment to advocate equal rights for communities traditionally underserved. She organized the first-ever candlelight vigil on the MSU campus and spearheaded an online petition gathering 3,000 signatures for a moment of silence in New Jersey public schools, all to honor the life of Sakia Gunn, an African-American lesbian from New Jersey who was the victim of a hate crime.
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