Tarana Burke is a prominent social activist who is best known for creating the Me Too campaign, which has sparked a global movement to stand in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence. Born on September 12, 1973 in Harlem, New York, Burke has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of women and fighting against sexual assault and harassment.
Before Burke became a household name, she worked as a youth camp director in 1996. It was during this time that she had a private conversation with a young girl who had experienced sexual abuse. This encounter served as the inspiration for Burke to coin the phrase "Me Too," with the intention of creating a platform for survivors to share their stories and seek support.
In 2007, Burke founded the nonprofit organization Just Be Inc., through which she launched the Me Too campaign. The movement quickly gained momentum, as survivors began using the hashtag #MeToo on social media to share their experiences and break the silence surrounding sexual violence.
In addition to her work with Just Be Inc., Burke also served as the Senior Director for Girls for Gender Equity, where she continued her advocacy for gender equality and empowerment. She has been recognized for her contributions to the feminist movement and has spoken at numerous events and conferences on issues related to sexual assault and harassment.
In a symbolic moment of recognition, Burke was chosen to push the Waterford crystal button to release the ball drop in Times Square on New Year's Eve 2018, highlighting the impact of the Me Too movement on the global stage.
Despite being a public figure, Burke values her privacy and prefers to keep details about her personal life out of the spotlight. In September 2016, she shared a rare glimpse into her family life by posting a photo on Twitter with her mother, showing the love and support that fuels her activism.
Burke's Me Too campaign gained widespread recognition when actress Alyssa Milano credited her during an appearance on Good Morning America in October 2017. This acknowledgment solidified Burke's position as a trailblazer in the fight against sexual violence and brought even more attention to her important work.
As an activist, Tarana Burke continues to inspire and empower individuals around the world to speak out against injustice and advocate for change. Through her tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to social justice, she has truly made a lasting impact on society and paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.