Stonewall Champion of Pride Courtney Johnson
Courtney Johnson, also known as Strawberry, is a dynamic and influential figure in San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community,where she has spent nearly a decade shaping the local scene through her work in drag and now in her role as a field research coordinator for the Trans Health Project at UCSD. As a woman of trans experience, she brings a unique and powerful perspective to her work, both in the academic field and in her artistic expression.
Courtney, a San Diego native from Logan Heights, has always been deeply connected to the local LGBTQ+ community, and she views Hillcrest as her home. Not only does she live and work in the area, but she also has strong personal ties to the community, frequenting the neighborhood’s restaurants and bars. Hillcrest’s LGBTQ+ culture isessential to her identity, and she continuously strives to foster better, more inclusive spaces for performers and trans individuals.
While the community has made progress over the years, Courtney acknowledges the challenges that still exist,particularly regarding divisions that can arise within it. In her eyes, Hillcrest represents both a sanctuary and a space in need of continued work, but she is committed to helping bridge the gaps and create a more inclusive environment for all.
Reflecting on the evolution of the community over the past nine years, Courtney recounts a challenging journey toward finding acceptance. Early in her involvement, she struggled to establish herself and was often met withresistance or indifference. However, it wasn’t until she took a more proactive approach—specifically by producing events and creating spaces for change—that she began to feel truly seen and accepted.
Over time, she has become a prominent figure in the scene, and while this brings a sense of accomplishment, it alsocomes with challenges. The rapid changes in the LGBTQ+ community and its growing visibility have brought new complexities, and at times, Courtney feels overwhelmed by the divisions that have surfaced. Despite this, she remains focused on the future, driven by her desire to pave the way for the next generation of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Her efforts are rooted in a deep sense of responsibility to the younger community members who look to her for guidance and inspiration. Being named Champion of Pride at this year’s Spirit of Stonewall Awards was a significant and humbling experience for Courtney. She describes feeling honored and grateful to receive this recognition, especially given her childhood experience of being the only sibling not to win awards. This validation, after years of hard work and dedication, brings her a sense of closure and accomplishment. It also underscores her belief that recognition is not always immediate, but when it comes, it is especially rewarding.
Despite the honor, Courtney approaches her recognition with humility, remaining focused on the work ahead rather than resting on her laurels. The idea of service to the community remains central to her life’s mission, and she takes her position as a leader in the LGBTQ+ space seriously. For the younger generations of LGBTQ+ individuals, Courtney offers a piece of advice that reflects her own journey of self-discovery:
“Don’t give up who you are for the approval of anyone. Speak your mind no matter what.”
This simple yet profound advice underscores the importance of staying true to one’s identity, regardless of societal pressures or expectations.
For Courtney, being able to express herself authentically has been key to her success and happiness, and she encourages others to embrace their truth without fear of judgment.
Throughout her life, Courtney has faced both external and internal challenges that have helped shape this philosophy. As a trans woman, she has encountered barriers that many in the community face, from discrimination to invisibility. Yet, she remains resolute in her belief that every person deserves to exist in a space where they can be their trueselves. Her advocacy for trans rights and visibility is rooted in a desire for fairness and equality for all LGBTQ+ people, especially for those who may be marginalized within the larger community.
Courtney’s work as a field research coordinator for the Trans Health Project has given her firsthand experience with the gaps in healthcare and social services for trans individuals. Through her role, she seeks to address those disparities and create a more equitable environment for trans people. However, she acknowledges the journey is farfrom over, and that more work is needed both locally and nationally to ensure trans individuals have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
This advocacy is crucial, especially given the growing visibility of transgender issues in the media and politics. As Courtney reflects on her journey, she remains committed to the ongoing evolution of the LGBTQ+ community,particularly in Hillcrest. While there are certainly obstacles to overcome, she is optimistic about the potential for change and the ability to create spaces where all people trans, queer, and otherwise, feel celebrated, valued, and understood.
Courtney’s message is clear: change is possible, but it requires effort, openness, and a willingness to confront difficulttruths. She has dedicated her life to pushing for that change, and with each step, she continues to build a more inclusive and supportive future for everyone in the LGBTQ+ community.