Tequila Johnson was the first in her family to graduate from college, and she’s been kicking butt and taking names ever since! These days, she’s the co-founder and CEO of The Equity Alliance, a Tennessee-based network of for-profit and non-profit businesses dedicated to empowering Black communities.
An award-winning activist and political strategist, Tequila’s work has been recognized by The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, and MSNBC. Did we mention she’s also a graduate of Tennessee State University with a master’s in counseling psychology? Please welcome this incredible — and incredibly impactful — FACE of Nashville!
First things first, are you from Nashville?
I’m originally from Chattanooga, but Nashville has been home for over 20 years now. Growing up, I always felt a strong desire to change my environment and seek out something bigger. I wanted to break the generational cycles I saw around me — not just for me but for my entire lineage.
Being the first person in my family to graduate from college was a huge milestone in my journey. It wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about proving to myself and my family that we could dream bigger and achieve more. That foundation of perseverance and ambition has been a driving force in my work as an advocate and leader today.
Tell us about some of The Equity Alliance’s work!
The Equity Alliance was born out of a need to build Black political power and create opportunities for historically marginalized communities to have a voice. We focus on civic engagement, voter registration, rights restoration, and advocacy. Our mission is to ensure that Black people in Tennessee can participate fully in democracy and influence decisions that affect their lives. We’ve knocked on over 250,000 doors and engaged in countless hours of community outreach.
But it’s more than numbers — we’ve fought harmful legislation, stopped environmentally damaging projects like the Memphis sawmill, and pushed for policies that focus on environmental justice and affordable housing.
You’re also super active in other areas of the non-profit realm. What other projects are you currently working on?
One of the projects I’m most passionate about is called “Passport to Freedom.” This initiative connects inner-city kids with international opportunities, opening their eyes to a world beyond their immediate surroundings. We want to help these kids get passports and provide them with experiences abroad that could change the trajectory of their lives, much like my early opportunities to step outside of my environment changed mine.
Additionally, I’m heavily involved in our mutual aid program, which we call “Community Love.” It’s about ensuring that people in our communities have their immediate needs met while also tying that support to long-term advocacy wins. We focus on areas like education, rights restoration, and environmental justice.
These projects are all about empowering people and making sure they have the resources and opportunities to thrive.
What’s on the horizon?
Taking a well-deserved sabbatical in 2025! I’ve been running full steam ahead for years, and it’s time to hit pause and focus on personal growth. The sabbatical will give me time to reflect, recharge, and explore new interests. I’m planning to travel internationally — Greece is definitely on my list — and maybe even do a dopamine detox retreat.
I also want to pick up a new, non-work-related skill that stretches me creatively or intellectually. It’s a time for self-discovery and evolution. When I come back, I’m looking forward to continuing my work with fresh perspectives and new insights, both personally and professionally.
When you aren’t advocating, where can we find you?
You can almost always find me at the gym! Powerlifting is a huge part of my life — it keeps me grounded and challenges me to push my physical and mental limits. I started powerlifting in 2019 and love the discipline and strength it brings.
Beyond that, I’m a bit of a social butterfly, so I love dancing and spending time with friends. I also enjoy finding new spots around Nashville, especially places that showcase the city’s cultural diversity. Nashville has so much to offer beyond its well-known tourist areas; I love exploring that side of the city.
What is one self-care item you can’t (or wouldn’t want to!) live without?
Self-care is all about creating a calming, restful environment. I can’t live without my shower steamers, scented candles, and cozy pajamas. It’s a little ritual I’ve built into my routine, especially after a long day. Lighting a candle, taking a deep breath, and wrapping myself in something soft really helps me unwind and recharge.
What’s the most recent memorable meal you’ve had?
I had the most incredible meal at Supper Club on Belcourt. The food was phenomenal, but it was the whole experience that made it memorable. The ambiance, energy, and company — it all came together perfectly. It’s one of those places that feels special every time you go, and I love supporting a Black-owned business that brings so much flavor and culture to the Nashville scene.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Treat relationships like wealth.” Relationships are like investments — you have to nurture and diversify them, just like you would with your financial portfolio. This philosophy has guided me throughout my life and career.
Whether in business, advocacy, or personal connections, I’ve learned that relationships are everything. They are the foundation for growth, collaboration, and resilience. When you invest in people and surround yourself with diverse perspectives, you create a network that helps you weather any storm and seize every opportunity.
Outside of faith, family, and friends, what three things can’t you live without?
The gym, my passport, and my KitchenAid mixer. The gym is where I push myself physically and mentally — it’s a huge part of my self-care. My passport represents my love for travel and exploration, which keeps me inspired and grounded. And my KitchenAid mixer? That’s my little indulgence because I love to bake. There’s something so satisfying about creating something from scratch, and baking allows me to unwind and get a little creative.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite place to take guests when they visit Nashville? Anywhere off of Broadway! Most people think of Nashville and immediately picture bachelorette parties and honky-tonks, but there’s so much more to this city.
I love taking people to explore the cultural diversity that Nashville has to offer. It’s a vibrant, evolving city with so many hidden gems that showcase its history and creativity, and I’m always excited to introduce people to that side of Nashville.
What’s at the top of your travel bucket list? Greece is absolutely at the top of my list. I’ve always dreamed of visiting — something about the history, the landscapes, and the culture just draws me in. It’s one of those places I know will be a transformative experience, and I can’t wait to immerse myself in it.
Most unexpected item in your purse or car? A voter registration form! I keep them on me at all times. Even though I’ve transitioned into more of a leadership and strategy role at The Equity Alliance, I still love the relational organizing side of voter registration. There’s something powerful about those one-on-one conversations that can spark someone’s civic engagement journey, and I always want to be prepared for that moment.
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Nashville women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
