Alicia Garza

Alicia Garza is an acclaimed activist, writer, and organizer, widely recognized as a co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, who now focuses on building Black political power and women’s advocacy. After igniting a global movement with her pivotal Facebook post in 2013 that coined the phrase ‘Black lives matter,’ Alicia Garza went on to co-found the Black Lives Matter movement, rapidly gaining global traction and catalyzing widespread protests against police brutality and racial disparities. Garza’s extensive foundation in community organizing began earlier, with her instrumental role in organizing the first Women of Color Conference at the University of California, San Diego in 2002. Following her graduation, she advanced political education at the School of Unity and Liberation (SOUL) in 2003 and later championed economic security for people of color with Just Cause Oakland.

Currently, she is transitioning into the significant role of Senior Vice President of Movement, Infrastructure, and Explorations at the JPB Foundation, where she will continue to drive systemic change and justice through strategic philanthropic initiatives. Alicia Garza remains a preeminent voice, shaping national conversations around racial equity, workers’ rights, and democratic participation.