Tarana Burke shares the heartbreaking story behind the genesis of the viral ‘me too’ movement, and she offers strength and healing to those who have experienced sexual trauma or harassment.
The simple yet courageous #MeToo campaign, amplified by actress Alyssa Milano, has emerged as a rallying cry for people everywhere who have survived sexual assault and sexual harassment — and Tarana’s powerful, poignant story as creator of what is now an international movement that supports survivors will move, uplift, and inspire you.
#MeToo is not just an overnight hashtag sensation; Tarana has dedicated more than 25 years of her life to social justice and to laying the groundwork for a movement that was initially created to help young women of color who survived sexual abuse and assault. The movement now inspires solidarity, amplifies the voices thousands of victims of sexual abuse, and puts the focus back on survivors.
A sexual assault survivor herself, Tarana is now working under the banner of The ‘me too’ Movement to assist other survivors and those who work to end sexual violence. She is also senior director at Girls for Gender Equity, a Brooklyn-based nonprofit that promotes the physical, psychological, social, and economic well-being of girls and women.
On stage, she provides words of empowerment that lift up marginalized voices, enabling survivors across all races, genders, or classes to know that they are not alone, and creating a place for comfort and healing for those who have experienced trauma.