Through July 4, The Post, in conjunction with the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, is featuring US citizens explaining what the American dream means to them in 2026 — including Earvin “Magic” Johnson. A first-overall pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1977, five-time NBA Champion and 12-time All-Star, Johnson went on to become a billionaire businessman and leading advocate in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
The American Dream, for me, is to make sure that everybody can have a piece of the American Dream.
I [understand the] struggle of those who live in the inner cities and urban America who are left behind, those who are poor — no matter what the color of [their] skin is.
I grew up poor. Through education, through hard work, by understanding that I had a certain skillset — playing basketball, and I worked very hard — I had a chance …
My parents gave me values and helped me to become the man I am today. Just like my father, I’m a hard worker. He worked two jobs his whole life to take care of his family: I have six sisters and three brothers. My mother wants to save the world. I got that from her.
I excelled at basketball, but also, I was smart enough to really be concerned with my education. And, last but not least, to meet people. I wasn’t afraid of going up to those who were really successful and asking them to be a mentor or to give me advice on achieving the American dream.
I rolled my sleeves up and I went to work. And I worked very, very hard. And that, to me, is what the American dream is all about. It is educating yourself to get a good job. And then, also, blessing not only your own family but other people.
Giving back is at the top of my list of things to do every single year: 125 kids on scholarship. [The Magic Johnson Foundation has] built 18 technology centers around the country. I built housing and hospitals in Africa through different organizations and also gave medicine to care for those who were living with HIV and AIDS. We’ve given over $10 million to different HIV and AIDS organizations throughout America.
That’s the American dream to me: helping others besides yourself.
The American Dream Video Project showcases real stories that illuminate pathways to opportunity. Featured at the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (MCAAD), this series is part of the Center’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. MCAAD is Washington, DC’s newest cultural institution, offering interactive exhibits and stories about achieving the American Dream. For more information, visit mcaad.org.
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