Ayo Tometi Biography

Ayọ Tometi, formerly known as Opal, is recognized as a prominent feminist activist and has become a worldwide icon in human rights. Being one of the three co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, her contributions to the cause have earned her a place in American history. Over the years, Tometi has utilized her platform to keep discussions about race, immigration, and gender justice at the forefront of global conversations. Her journey as a leader and advocate for justice began in her childhood, growing up as the daughter of Nigerian immigrants in Arizona and witnessing the struggles faced by her tight-knit Black immigrant community. This experience inspired her to become an active community organizer and advocate for social justice. Throughout her life, Tometi has continued to use her voice to bring attention to important issues, previously serving as the Executive Director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration for eight years and speaking out on behalf of immigrants at the United Nations, Harvard and Yale Universities, the Atlantic Ideas Summit, and TED, among many other prestigious stages. In 2013, in response to the acquittal of Trayvon Martin's killer, Tometi launched the Black Lives Matter online infrastructure, allowing millions to participate in the movement for inclusivity and democracy. Now - with the momentum generated by BLM in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Tometi is setting her sights on an even greater goal: unifying the global Black community. It explains her drive to establish a platform such as Diaspora Rising. The digital publication focuses on relevant subjects related to blackness across the world. Before the first edition's release, Tometi launched a powerful video - captured in Ghana by filmmaker Wael Gzoly that cemented her new mission statement. She stands confidently in front of significant sites in Ghana, reminding us that our ancestors also battled for freedom and triumphed. Tometi is a respected consultant and board member for numerous organizations and endeavors and frequently travels globally to endorse human rights initiatives. And while her accomplishments are noteworthy, so are the honors she has received, including being named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential Women of the Century. She is currently recognized at the Smithsonian's National Museum for African American History and Culture for her contributions to society. Along with her fellow co-founders of BLM, Tometi received the Sydney Peace Prize and an Honorary Ph.D. Over time, she has been featured on the cover of multiple magazines and listed as one of the "Most Influential People" by Forbes, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan. Her most recent accolade was the 2020 Freedom of the Flame Award, presented by civil rights leaders during the 55th anniversary of the Selma Bridge Crossing. Tometi embodies a level of bravery and leadership that many of us only read about in the pages of black history books. Her faith and family provide her with the fortitude to endure the heartache of fighting for justice. Still, she also draws inspiration from her African roots, her identity as a Nigerian woman, and her extensive education and background in human rights. Tometi holds a Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies and utilizes her expertise as a social entrepreneur in the private and public sectors to progress social justice. When she's not traveling or developing plans for social justice, you might find her dancing, cycling, or adding to her African art collection. Despite her numerous achievements, the truth is, Tometi has only just started and has much more to accomplish.

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