Opal Tometi is an American human rights activist and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, which she helped launch in 2013 alongside Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza. Tometi’s work with BLM grew from the outrage surrounding the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin. As one of the key architects of the movement, Tometi has been dedicated to advocating for racial justice, police accountability, and an end to systemic violence against Black communities. Her background in community organizing and advocacy for immigrant rights has shaped her approach to activism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of racial justice and broader social justice struggles.
In addition to her work with BLM, Tometi is an influential figure in global activism, with a particular focus on immigrant rights. She served as the Executive Director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI), where she worked to address the unique challenges faced by Black immigrants, such as racial profiling and deportation. Tometi’s advocacy has earned her recognition as a leading voice for Black liberation and human rights. Her work is rooted in the belief that true justice and equality can only be achieved through solidarity and collective action across different communities.
