ESSENCE celebrates the changemakers shaping a bold, Black future today during Black History Month. With our second annual “Black Futures Now” list, we’re honoring a select group of leaders who are fearlessly pushing the boundaries of racial, economic, and social justice. These visionaries aren’t waiting for the future—they’re building it now, challenging the status quo with progressive and radical ideas to create a world where Black liberation thrives.
In a time of rising censorship, attacks on Black voices and efforts to erase our history, these leaders are creating solutions, building power and driving change. They are unapologetically leading the charge for justice, equity and empowerment through activism, academia, politics and culture.