Alicia Garza
Biography
Alicia Garza is an American organizer, civil rights leader, author, and political strategist whose work has helped shape contemporary movements for racial justice and community empowerment. She has spent more than two decades organizing around issues including police accountability, economic justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and political participation, emphasizing long-term movement building rooted in community leadership and collective action.
Following the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the killing of Trayvon Martin, Garza wrote the Facebook post that ended with the affirmation "Black Lives Matter." Patrisse Cullors adapted the phrase into the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter, and together with Opal Tometi they co-created what became the global Black Lives Matter movement. Garza later founded Black Futures Lab, an organization dedicated to building Black political power through civic engagement, research, and policy advocacy.
In addition to her organizing, Garza is the author of the bestselling memoir The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart. Through her writing, public speaking, and leadership, she continues to influence conversations on democracy, intersectionality, movement strategy, and the future of social justice organizing.
BQW Impact
Alicia Garza has helped redefine modern social justice organizing by centering Black communities, queer leadership, and intersectional approaches to political change. As a co-creator of Black Lives Matter and founder of Black Futures Lab, she has expanded opportunities for civic engagement while demonstrating the importance of sustained grassroots organizing. Her leadership has inspired a new generation of activists working at the intersections of racial justice, LGBTQ+ advocacy, gender equity, and democratic participation.
Notable Works
Black Lives Matter (2013)
Co-created the global movement advocating for racial justice and accountability in response to anti-Black violence.
Black Futures Lab (2018)
Founded the nonprofit organization dedicated to building Black political power through research, civic engagement, and policy advocacy.
The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart (2020)
Bestselling memoir exploring organizing, leadership, coalition building, and sustaining movements for change.
Black Census Project (2018)
Helped launch one of the largest surveys of Black people in the United States to inform advocacy and public policy.
National Domestic Workers Alliance (2011)
Served in senior leadership, advancing campaigns for labor protections and economic justice for domestic workers.
Learn More
Explore Alicia Garza's official website featuring her biography, writing, speaking engagements, and current initiatives.
Learn about the organization Garza founded to build Black political power through research, advocacy, and civic engagement.
Learn more about Garza's bestselling memoir on organizing, leadership, and movement building.
Watch Garza's talks on social justice, organizing, democracy, and community leadership.
Follow Alicia Garza's official Instagram for updates on organizing, writing, public speaking, and advocacy.