Arkansan honored by stamp

The U.S. Postal Service will hold a First-Day-of-Sale event for the 2012 Black Heritage stamp (Forever priced at 45 cents), honoring Arkansas Native and publisher John H. Johnson, Tuesday, January 31, at Desha County Courthouse, Robert S. Morris St, Arkansas City, AR, at 10:30 a.m. Mr. Johnson was born in Arkansas City, AR and spent a large part of his childhood years there until he moved to Chicago, IL where he later founded his publishing business.

Johnson (1918 – 2005) is the trailblazing publisher of Ebony, Jet, and other magazines, and an entrepreneur who in 1982 became the first African American listed by Forbes magazine as one of the 400 wealthiest people in America. Johnson overcame poverty and racism to build a business empire embracing magazines, radio stations, cosmetics, and more. His magazines portrayed black people positively at a time when such representation was rare, and played an important role in the civil rights movement.

“I am proud to be part of this event that recognizes and honors a fellow, native Arkansan,” said David Camp, Arkansas District Manager. “Mr. Johnson was an amazing change-maker and his legacy will continue through the issuance of this stamp.”

The Postal Service has recognized the achievements of prominent African Americans through the Black Heritage series since 1978. This stamp honoring Johnson is the 35th stamp in that series, which highlights outstanding individuals who helped shape American culture.

The Black Heritage stamp honoring John H. Johnson is being issued as a Forever® stamp. Forever stamps are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate.

A free pictorial postmark will be available with a stamp purchase. A limited supply of cachet envelopes will be available to purchase for $5.00 each at the event and sheets of stamps as well.

The stamp, designed by USPS art director Howard Paine, features a photograph of John H. Johnson by Bachrach Studios. The photographer was David McCann.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.