New York has always been known as the city that never sleeps—and we’re pretty sure that’s largely due to its many activists who fight for social justice day and night!
Whether they’re uplifting Black communities or shining a light on LGBTQIA+ and women’s rights, their voices are inspiring the masses to take a stand—and countless fierce changemakers are born in the process.
Check out these New York activists who use their platforms for the greater good and are truly changing the world for the better.
Chelsea Miller | @thechelseamiller
As the co-founder of @FreedomMarchNYC, one of the biggest youth-led civil rights organizations, Chelsea Miller is among the most recognizable activists of this generation. From Black Lives Matter to women’s rights, she uses her platform to fight for change that is long overdue.
Nialah Edari | @nialahedari
On our list of New York activists we also have Nialah Edari—who is a fearless co-founder of @FreedomMarchNYC as well. The @thenext50us leadership council member never fails to inspire others with her content on racial injustice, women’s rights, and politics.
Janet Mock | @janetmock
Aside from being a respected New York activist, Janet Mock is also a talented director and bestselling author of Redefining Realness (2014) and Surpassing Certainty (2017). When she signed a deal with Netflix in 2019, Janet became the first trans woman in history to sign a production pact with a major studio.
Nia White | @theniawhite
Freedom March NYC continues to make a huge impact as an organization that organizes non-violent protests—and this historical movement is led by Nia White. Follow this college student on Instagram to see how she fights for policy reform!
Brittany Packnett Cunningham | @mspackyetti
You might know Brittany as a member of President Barack Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. As one of the top New York activists, we’re absolutely certain that just a few scrolls through her feed will give you a brand new perspective on today’s most pressing social issues.
Miss Peppermint | @peppermint247
RuPaul’s Drag Race fans will surely recognize Miss Peppermint from the show’s ninth season! This New York social activist’s content is all about entertainment, show-stealing looks, and LGBTQ issues. In a nutshell, it’s pretty much sugar, spice, and human rights!
Matt Bernstein | @mattxiv
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on some of the most pressing LGBTQ issues of this generation, then Matt Bernstein will walk you through it all. On Instagram, this New York social activist breaks down everything you need to know about through graphics that demand attention and make-up looks that literally make a statement.
Blair Imani | @blairimani
Blair Imani’s goal is to ensure that everyone who comes across her social media platforms learns something new. From first aid and toxic positivity to bullying and internet safety, she’s much like an all-knowing force who influences people to do good.
Rana Abdelhamid | @ranaforcongress
Rana is a New York social activist and a political candidate with a voice that speaks volumes of truth! She believes that it’s time for a new generation of leadership that protects all of us—not just those at the top (preach!). Follow her to see all the reasons she deserves your vote.
Cindy Trinh| @cindytrinh.photo
Cindy Trinh leverages their mind-blowing photography skills to tell visual stories you’ll instantly be enthralled by. They are the creator of @activistnyc, a page dedicated to documenting activism and social justice movements in New York City since 2014.
A picture is worth a thousand words—and the words that resonate from Cindy’s photographs are always worth listening to.
Fran Tirado | @fransquishco
If there’s anyone who specializes in producing superior queer content, it’s Fran Tirado. In fact, this New York social activist has even been proclaimed a “queer champion.” The former brand and editorial strategy lead for L.G.B.T.Q. content at Netflix has a knack for entertaining audiences with informative and hilarious posts.
Leyna Bloom | @leynabloom
Leyna Bloom is an icon—and she’s achieved countless historical milestones to prove it! The actress and model became the only transgender woman of colour to walk Paris Fashion Week (Fall/Winter 2019) and was named by Glamour as one of the “6 Women Who Are Shaping the Future of Fashion.”
Raquel Willis | @raquel_willis
As a former national organizer for the Transgender Law Center, executive director for Out magazine, and director of communications for the Ms. Foundation for Women, there’s no doubt about it that Raquel Willis is one of the biggest icons of the transgender community. Over 180k people on Instagram follow her journey as she trailblazes the way!
Qween Jean | @qween_jean
She’s a Qween, and she knows it—we know it, and you know it too! This talented NYC costume designer knows exactly how to turn heads with on-point looks. She’s also a pro at inspiring the masses through her thought-provoking content on social issues.
Junior Mintt | @juniormintt
When you follow Junior Mintt, you’ll instantly be transported to an aesthetic 80s universe! This New York activist fights for change—and does it while looking absolutely fabulous. Whether it’s through her music or podcast, she makes sure the world hears her opinions loud and clear.
West Dakota | @iamwestdakota
You might have been looking for New York activists to follow, but when you come across West Dakota you just know you’ve found an all-in-one activist and fashion icon. The drag queen consistently speaks up for the transgender community and Black Lives Matter.
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These New York activists consistently use their platforms for the greater good. This has enabled them to earn the trust of the masses and shine bright in social media spaces.
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