Kailynn Johnson, Freelance Journalist Profile

Articles

A Hoochie Homecoming

1 week ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

Being known as “The Hoochie Historian” is much more than internet virality for Zorine Truly. The North Memphis native — known for her bite-sized lessons on “Hoochie History” — has gained a dedicated following of more than 150,000 people on TikTok. And while educating viewers about a unique subculture has allowed her to give Black women their well-deserved flowers, it’s also been an opportunity for her to reclaim the narrative for the community.
Southern Environmental Law Center Threatens Lawsuit Against xAI Data Center

1 week ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

Environmental justice advocates are demanding xAI officials be held accountable for the operation of gas turbines at the Memphis data center. Today, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) sent a letter to xAI notifying the company of their intent to sue over the data’s center permitless gas turbines. The letter was sent on behalf of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Draft Report Explores Need For Crime Lab Expansions

2 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

The Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) found that upgrading current Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) crime lab facilities could help in expediting evidence testing. They also recommend potentially expanding crime lab services throughout West Tennessee. Even though TBI has recruited 50 forensic scientists to address the surge in evidence testing, a draft report from TACIR shows that the lack of physical space has limited timely turnarounds.
Environmental Advocates Ask EPA To Intervene Regarding Air Quality Standards

2 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

Memphis leaders have partnered with regional policy experts and advocates to continue fighting for cleaner air standards, just as the summer months bring heightened risks from the city’s smog. Last week, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) filed a petition to the Environmental Pollution Agency (EPA) asking the agency to redesignate Memphis as an area that does not meet ozone air quality standards.
Trans Advocates Fight Federal Attacks on Housing Protections

3 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

National threats to housing protections for transgender and gender nonconforming people would greatly impact those in Memphis, who are already disproportionately affected by homelessness. Access to housing has long been a challenge for marginalized people living in Memphis. While homelessness is a nationwide issue, Memphis residents are often at a disadvantage due to a lack of resources.
NAACP Pushes Back on MLGW Response to xAI Letter

3 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is refuting Memphis Light, Gas and Water’s (MLGW) claims, renouncing responsibility for the xAI project. “Regardless of the MLGW administration’s claims, MLGW’s own charter and policy manual appear to give the MLGW board a role in deciding the terms on which the utility will add or improve infrastructure,” the NAACP said in a statement.
Fishing Rodeo to Unify Community, ‘Street Organizations’ (AKA Gangs)

3 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

A fishing rodeo this weekend is hoped to bridge a gap between the community and “street organizations,” what most would call gangs. The Community Unity Council (CUC), an organization created to promote communication between different street organizations, will host a Unity Fishing Rodeo on June 8 at the South Pavilion at Martin Luther King Jr. Riverside Park. The event is open to all organizations, families, and “outdoor lovers.” Representative Justin J.
Lilo & Stitch (2025)

3 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

I think I’ve finally gotten to the root of Disney’s obsession with live-action remakes. The problem stems from an integral component with any relationship — even relationships when money and entertainment are involved: the element of trust. It’s clear that Disney doesn’t trust audiences to keep their legacy titles alive. My theory dates back to Walt Disney’s tradition of giving theatrical re-releases to some of their most popular films prior to the VHS era.
Roy Wood Jr. Talks Comedy, Loneliness, and Sarcasm Ahead of Just City Celebration

4 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

Comedian Roy Wood Jr. will headline Just City’s 10-year celebration, Stand Up with Just City, on June 8th at Minglewood Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. The Birmingham-born comic is known for his political correspondence on The Daily Show, comedy specials, and production of the PBS documentary The Neutral Ground, among other projects. Wood is set to perform stand-up as Just City celebrates 10 years of impact and criminal justice reform.
NAACP Urges Local Officials to Stop xAI Operations ‘Completely’

4 weeks ago | memphisflyer.com | Kailynn Johnson

The National Association for The Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is calling on the Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) and Memphis Light Gas and Water (MLGW) to stop xAI’s operations on behalf of the citizens of Memphis. In a letter to former SCHD director and health officer, Michelle Taylor, and the MLGW board of commissioners, the advocacy organization criticized both agencies for allowing the data center to operate, while also leaving community members out of important conversations.