Black women have always been at the forefront of social justice movements, using their voices, power and influence to advocate for change. From civil rights and environmental justice to education reform and political activism, Black female activists continue to shape our world for the better.
Black Female Activists
Tamika D. Mallory – Social Justice and Women’s Rights
Tamika Mallory is a powerhouse in the fight for racial and social justice. She is a co-founder of Until Freedom, an organization dedicated to addressing systemic injustice. Mallory gained national recognition as one of the co-chairs of the 2017 Women’s March and has been an outspoken advocate for police reform and the rights of marginalized communities. Her viral speech following the murder of George Floyd solidified her role as a leader in modern activism.
Brittany Packnett Cunningham – Education and Criminal Justice Reform
Brittany Packnett Cunningham is an educator, activist, and writer dedicated to social change. She was a leading voice in the Ferguson protests following the killing of Michael Brown and has since focused on policy reform and social justice initiatives. As a former member of President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, she continues to use her platform to advocate for equity, justice and systemic change.
Opal Tometi – Immigration and Human Rights
Opal Tometi is one of the co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement and a prominent advocate for immigrant rights. She has worked extensively with communities of color, pushing for policies that support immigrants and marginalized communities. Her work with the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI) highlights her commitment to global human rights and justice.
Angela Rye – Political Advocacy and Voter Rights
Angela Rye is a political strategist, commentator and attorney who uses her voice to educate and mobilize Black voters. Through her company, Impact Strategies, she works to empower communities with knowledge about their rights. She also teaches about he importance of voting and policy changes that impact Black lives. As a frequent political analyst on major news networks, Rye breaks down complex political issues in a way that resonates with young Black voters.
Tarana Burke – Sexual Violence Awareness and #MeToo Movement
Tarana Burke is the founder of the #MeToo movement. The movement has shed light on the prevalence of sexual violence, particularly against Black women and girls. Burke’s activism focuses on healing and justice for survivors, as well as holding perpetrators accountable. Her work continues to influence conversations around consent, empowerment and systemic change in how society addresses sexual violence.
Kimberlé Crenshaw – Intersectionality and Racial Justice
Kimberlé Crenshaw is a scholar and activist known for developing the concept of intersectionality, which highlights how race, gender and other identities overlap to create unique experiences of discrimination. As a professor and co-founder of the African American Policy Forum, Crenshaw’s work focuses on legal and social justice reform. Her research has been instrumental in addressing issues affecting Black women, particularly within the legal system.
Erica Garner – Police Brutality and Racial Justice
The late Erica Garner turned her personal tragedy into activism after her father, Eric Garner, was killed by police in 2014. She became a passionate advocate for police reform, organizing protests and pushing for accountability in law enforcement. Her relentless fight against racial injustice continues to inspire activists around the world.
Mari Copeny (Little Miss Flint) – Environmental Activism
Despite being only a teenager, Mari Copeny, also known as Little Miss Flint, has been a powerful force in the fight for clean water in Flint, Michigan, and other communities facing environmental crises. She has worked with national leaders to raise awareness about environmental racism and has provided resources to communities in need. Her activism reminds people that young voices can drive significant change.
LaTosha Brown – Voting Rights and Political Mobilization
LaTosha Brown is the co-founder of Black Voters Matter, an organization that has been instrumental in increasing Black voter participation and combating voter suppression. Her work has played a crucial role in shifting political power in the South, ensuring that Black communities have a voice in elections. She continues to advocate for policies that protect and expand voting rights.
Patrisse Cullors – Racial Justice and Police Reform
As a co-founder of Black Lives Matter, Patrisse Cullors has been a leading voice in the fight against systemic racism. Her work emphasizes the need for police reform, community empowerment and reparations for Black communities. Through activism, art and writing, Cullors continues to challenge the status quo and push for lasting change.
The Legacy of Black Female Activists
These women are part of a long legacy of Black female activism that includes historical figures, like Harriet Tubman, Ida B. Wells, and Fannie Lou Hamer. Their work continues to inspire new generations of activists who are fighting for justice, equity and human rights.
Black women hold the power to drive change, uplift our communities and demand a better future. These activists show that whether through political action, community organizing or simply using your voices, you can contribute to the movement for a more just and equal world.