Tarana Burke
Credit: Nyra Lang
2018

Tarana Burke

Biography

Tarina Burke, born on September 12, 1973, in New York City, is an American activist and advocate for survivors of sexual assault and harassment. As the founder of the "Me Too" movement, Burke has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the prevalence of sexual violence and providing support for survivors. Burke's journey as an activist began in the 1990s when she worked at a youth camp. In 2006, Burke coined the phrase "Me Too" to raise awareness about the pervasiveness of sexual violence. The movement gained significant attention in 2017, following the viral hashtag #MeToo, which was used to share stories of survivors on social media. Burke's original intention was to create a sense of unity among survivors and to highlight the magnitude of the issue. As the founder of the "Me Too" movement, Burke has dedicated her life to advocating for survivors and promoting systemic change. She has worked tirelessly to shift the focus from individual stories to the larger societal structures that perpetuate sexual violence. Burke's work has garnered widespread recognition and admiration. She has been honored with numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2018. Burke continues to use her platform to amplify the voices of survivors, advocate for policy changes, and push for a culture shift. Tarana Burke's unwavering commitment to justice, healing, and the empowerment of survivors has made an indelible impact on society. Her courage, resilience, and dedication have inspired countless individuals to come forward, share their stories, and seek support. Through her visionary leadership, Burke has ignited a global movement that continues to drive conversations and create lasting change in the fight against sexual violence.

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