Patrisse Cullors is an American activist, artist, and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, which she co-created with Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi in 2013. Cullors launched BLM after the acquittal of George Zimmerman for the murder of Trayvon Martin, with the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter spreading across social media as a call for justice and an end to police violence against Black people. Through her work with BLM, Cullors has become a prominent figure in social justice movements, advocating for the liberation of Black people, the reform of criminal justice systems, and the dismantling of systemic racism.
Beyond her role in BLM, Cullors has worked on several projects dedicated to advancing racial and social justice. She is also an accomplished author, with her 2020 memoir When They Call You a Terrorist detailing her experiences growing up as a Black woman in the United States and the journey behind the creation of the Black Lives Matter movement. Cullors has been a vocal advocate for divesting from law enforcement and investing in community-based resources. Her activism has inspired countless others to take action in the fight for racial equality, although she has also faced both praise and criticism for her outspoken views and leadership in the movement.
