Women's Activism NYC

Kerry Washington

1977 - Today

By: Jamaly Collado | Date Added:

Before Kerry Washington dazzled audiences with her powerful performances on screen, she was already a force for change in her own right. While she's best known for her role as the formidable Olivia Pope on Shonda Rhimes' hit series "Scandal," her journey as an activist began long before the cameras started rolling. In the wake of the 2016 election, Kerry's commitment to political activism intensified. She didn't just speak out; she took action. From addressing the crowds at the Los Angeles Women’s March in 2017 to hitting the campaign trail for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in 2020, Kerry made her voice heard in the fight for justice and equality. But Kerry's activism wasn't confined to the spotlight. She rolled up her sleeves and worked alongside local activists, including the indomitable Stacey Abrams, to mobilize voters in the critical 2021 Georgia runoff. Her dedication to grassroots organizing didn't stop there. Recognizing the power of grassroots movements, Kerry founded the Vision Into Power Cohort in partnership with an arm of the Movement Voter Project. Through this initiative, she supports ten local organizations that empower marginalized groups, offering not just funding but also her Hollywood connections and storytelling expertise. Moreover, Kerry's commitment to uplifting women extends beyond activism into entrepreneurship. She has invested in women-led startups like Solv, a health company, and Aurate, a sustainable jewelry brand. Through her production company, Simpson Street, Kerry continues to champion the stories of women of color, inspired by the strong matriarchy of her childhood. Named after the Bronx street where her mother grew up, Simpson Street embodies Kerry's vision of amplifying diverse voices and narratives. From the riveting "Confirmation" in 2016 to the poignant "American Son" in 2019 and the thought-provoking "Little Fires Everywhere" in 2020, Kerry's production company is dedicated to bringing these stories to life on screen. For Kerry Washington, activism isn't just a part of her public persona; it's a deeply ingrained commitment to creating a more just and equitable world. Whether on screen or behind the scenes, Kerry continues to inspire change and empower women, proving that true strength lies in lifting others.

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