Pan African News Network

For years, Dr. Umar Johnson, a prominent Pan-African psychologist and activist, has galvanized Black communities with his vision of Prince Hall Memorial Academy—a proposed institution dedicated to educating and empowering young Black boys. However, as millions of dollars in donations poured in, the school remains unbuilt, and frustrated donors are demanding answers.

The Fundraising Promise

Johnson’s campaign, spanning over a decade, promised an independent, Afrocentric boarding school to address systemic educational disparities. Through speaking tours, social media appeals, and private donations, he raised what some estimate to be millions of dollars. Yet, despite repeated assurances, no physical school exists, and financial transparency has been elusive.

Legal Troubles: Lawsuits & Allegations

In 2019, a Pennsylvania couple, Sharon and Anthony Hicks, filed a lawsuit against Johnson, alleging fraud and misallocation of funds. They claimed to have donated $25,000 for the school but saw no progress. The case was settled out of court, but the details remain undisclosed, raising more questions.

Other critics, including activists and former supporters, have accused Johnson of:

• Failing to establish a legally recognized nonprofit for the school project.
• Lack of public financial audits despite years of fundraising.
• Shifting explanations for delays (zoning issues, political sabotage, etc.).

The Money Trail: What We Know

While Johnson has not released full financial records, public records and donor testimonies suggest:

• No purchased property: Despite claims of searching for land, no deed or lease has been publicly verified.
• Personal expenditures: Critics allege funds were used for luxury items, travel, and personal branding rather than the school.
• No 501(c)(3) status: Unlike legitimate nonprofits, Johnson’s “Black Family Preservation Group” lacks IRS-recognized tax-exempt status, making donations legally unsecured.

Johnson’s Defense

Johnson maintains that systemic barriers—not mismanagement—have stalled the project. He has accused detractors of “weaponizing accountability” to undermine Black self-determination. Still, without open books, skepticism grows.

A Call for Transparency

Financial activists like Tariq Nasheed and Kevin Powell have urged Johnson to:

1. Release full financial statements.
2. Clarify the school’s legal structure.
3. Provide a clear timeline for construction.

Until then, the question lingers: Where did the money go?