Opal Tometi

Opal Tometi is an American writer, activist, and one of the co-founders of the influential Black Lives Matter movement. Born on August 15, 1983, in Tucson, Arizona, Tometi is of Nigerian descent and has dedicated her life to advocating for racial justice and human rights. Along with Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza, she co-founded the Black Lives Matter organization in 2013, aiming to address systemic racism and violence against Black communities. Tometi’s work has focused on issues such as immigration, gender equality, and racial equity.

In addition to her activism, Tometi has worked in various leadership roles with organizations that advocate for the rights of immigrants and marginalized communities. She has served as the Executive Director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI), and her efforts in organizing, writing, and speaking on behalf of these communities have earned her national recognition. Tometi’s voice has been integral in shaping the discourse on social justice, and she is a frequent speaker and contributor on issues of race, identity, and policy reform.

One of Tometi’s powerful quotes is: “We are in a time where we have to choose whether we will be complicit or whether we will stand up for justice.” This reflects her belief in individual responsibility and the importance of collective action in the fight against injustice. Opal Tometi continues to be a leading figure in social activism, using her platform to challenge oppressive systems and to encourage others to fight for equality and justice.