Mr. Johnnie A. Jones, Sr. Posthumously Receives NASS Margaret Chase Smith Award

For Immediate Release
Jan. 31, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) presented its 2024 Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award for political courage posthumously to Mr. Johnnie Anderson Jones, Sr. Jones organized the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott of 1953 that in­spired the later Montgomery Bus Boycotts. During his lifetime, he was dedicated to public service and civil rights through his work as an attorney, member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, and military service for which he earned the Purple Heart and Legion of Honor Award.    

“Valiant and altruistic, Mr. Jones was a true beacon of hope and inspiration throughout his 102 years of life,” said NASS President and Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon. “Regardless of the ob­stacles, he persevered in his pursuit of justice and equality, and he helped and saved countless lives along the way. It is a great privilege to honor Mr. Jones and his service with the Margaret Chase Smith Award.”

Jones was nominated for the award by Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry. 

“Johnnie Jones led a life of extraordinary courage and heroism, and demonstrated an uncommon commitment to democracy, equality, and justice in our country. Whether as a member of the U.S. Army, fighting in Northern France, or back home in Baton Rouge, Mr. Jones consistently showed us what it means to be a patriot. I’m grateful that the NASS membership has seen fit to honor Mr. Jones with this year’s Margaret Chase Smith Award,” said Secretary Landry.

Dr. Mary Louise Jones, Mr. Jones’s daughter-in-law, accepted the award on his behalf in a ceremo­ny held on Jan. 30, during the NASS 2025 Winter Conference. 

“It was an honor to present this prestigious award on behalf of the association. The work of Mr. Jones lives on and his legacy is not easily forgotten,” said NASS President-elect and Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson. 

Learn more about the Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award here.

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Media Contacts:
Maria Benson, Senior Director of Communications
mbenson@nass.org | 202-624-3528 | www.nass.org 

Brittany Hamilton, Communications & Special Projects Manager
bhamilton@nass.org | 202-624-3527