Charles M. Blow
Author of the recent novel "Fire Shut Up in My Bones", this NY Times columnist opens up about a segregated childhood, overcoming poverty, and mental health. Charles’ focus is reaching those with similar experiences and delivering news stories.
Ta-Nehisi Coates
Writer Ta-Nehisi’s books feature Black racial struggles in America, including spotlights on violence and police brutality, coming of age stories, and more. He is not afraid to ask the hard questions about the past and future of race in our country.
Tarell Alvin McCraney
Playwright, producer and writer, What started with "Moonlight" transitioned to Broadway and beyond. This highly acclaimed jack of all trades is not afraid to ask big questions, or give tough answers, and his words are always moving.
Ijeoma Oluo
Ijeoma is a Seattle based speaker and writer (and makeup artist!), the author of "So You Want to Talk About Race" and many other books and articles. She provides fiery commentary and an essential narrative, and her book should be a guide for every American to learn from.
Bassey Ikpi
Bassey's powerful book "I’m Telling the Truth, but I’m Lying" recounts her battle with anxiety and Bipolar II disorder. She spends her days examining how mental health is intertwined with every aspect of our lives, and will educate you on mental health within the Black community.
Roxane Gay
Roxane is a writer of comic books, such as "World of Wakanda" for Marvel and other books such as "Bad Feminist," "Hunger", and "Ayiti, an Untamed State." She is a GLAAD Media Award nominee, abolitionist, film and television writer, and speaker who always brings something new to the table.
Samuel R. Delaney
Pioneer in the sci-fi genre and winner of four Nebula Awards and a Hugo Award before the age of 27, Samuel is an advocate for diversifying the sci-fi genre, and has opened the doors for countless writers, all while speaking on his personal battle with dyslexia. He doesn't have an Instagram but you can follow his work through his official website!
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Chimamanda’s work has been translated into over 30 languages, won numerous awards, and she boasts two of the most popular TED Talks of all time, "The Danger of a Single Story" and "We Should All Be Feminists." Her messages are universal and moving, and she has some of the best narrative throughout her writing that we’ve ever read.
Kimberly Drew
Feminist, author, fashion icon, artist, and former social media manager for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Kimberly links art to activism and protests. She is a self-described curator of “Black art and experiences” and advocates for racial equality in the art world and just released a critically acclaimed first book titled "This is What I Know About Art."