Oil painting, on canvas, by Olivia Johnston, 2018

The following are testimonials from friends, that know me well, who can attest to my good nature, easy going demeanor, kindness, and sense of caring for all.

Ken, this a great initiative. The connection between the US Civil Rights movement and Northern Ireland is very real and fascinating, for its contrasts as much as its similarities. You are also raising awareness at a particularly dangerous moment for peace in Ireland. Don’t overlook earlier history – Frederick Douglass had a meaningful connection to Ireland!

Michael Moriarty

My dear friend Ken Johnston is a guy with a vision.  That vision is about community, good will and good faith.  Ken is a dreamer in the best sense of the word.  He is also a doer, always caring for family and friends, and looking for new ways to serve his community. My wife Farah, my daughter Sofia and I wish Uncle Kenny all the best and Godspeed on his latest adventure as he walks in the footsteps of so many freedom seekers who first showed the way.  God bless you if you can help Ken on his way.

Jon McCabe

Ken’s upcoming walk through Alabama and Mississippi is simply the latest example of America at its best. In an age in which families pay thousands to “experts” to enroll their children in everyday sports and activities, Ken’s life is spent voluntarily organizing events that bring communities together. Free of charge. Among his participation over the years has been a bike ride from Boston to New York City to benefit AIDS sufferers, taking listeners to the Montreal International Jazz Festival, organizing Winter Carnivals in Holyoke and Amherst, Mass., where he lives, helping victims rebuild following hurricane damage in South Carolina and participating in lantern festivals. His most recent achievement walking across Massachusetts over weekends in the summer of 2017 that motivated even bigger thoughts. Ken’s spirit of community and the sensation he derives from contributing to the greater good is something of which America can never get enough. So his latest endeavor, a 37-day walk to commemorate the civil rights movement of the 1960’s is something we should take note of. And, in the process, figure out what we can do to make our communities better. Best of luck in your journey.

Gus Martins

We thoroughly enjoyed having Ken stay the night with us. We anticipated his arrival all weekend and was only sorry that the weather was so cold. We were also both very tired! We would have loved to have been able to spend some time outdoors with him. Ken is kind and very passionate about what he is doing. His music inspired my son who actually added some of Ken’s music to his playlist. I encourage anyone that is in Ken’s path to open their hearts and doors. You will be truly inspired.

Bonnie Morris