Lauren Johnson is a prominent criminal justice reform advocate based in Austin, Texas. Drawing from her personal experiences within the criminal legal system, she has dedicated her career to advocating for systemic change. Johnson is a founding member of the Texas Women’s Justice Coalition, a group dedicated to addressing the unique needs of women in the criminal legal system. She has been a vocal advocate for the Dignity Act, legislation aimed at improving conditions for incarcerated women, including access to feminine hygiene products and trauma-informed care.
Her personal journey, including experiences of incarceration and motherhood, has deeply informed her advocacy. Johnson has shared her story at various platforms, including the Austin Women’s March, where she spoke on behalf of more than 12,000 incarcerated women in Texas, highlighting issues such as trauma, abuse, and the need for systemic change. Throughout her career, Johnson has been recognized for her contributions to criminal justice reform. She was a Just Leadership fellow in 2016, a Leadership Austin Essentials alum in 2017, and a Galaxy Gives fellow in 2025. Her work has earned her acknowledgment from organizations such as Grassroots Leadership, The Texas Observer, Texas Council on Family Relations, and the Austin Community Law Center. Johnson’s unwavering commitment to justice and equity continues to inspire and drive meaningful change.
