There is a clear consensus that 2020 was a year unlike any other. We all embarked in January of 2020 with hope, excitement, and optimism. As the year progressed and events unfolded, 2020 became an eye-opening year in many ways. From the worldwide protests after the killing of George Floyd to the global shutdown amidst the spread of the coronavirus, one by one, these events shifted the paradigm of our lives overnight. 

As we head into 2021 more wise, aware, and intentional, let’s enter this new year ready to embrace uncertainty. In light of recent events, it is even more paramount that we continue our efforts to challenge ourselves, grow, and walk the talk. To do so, we’ve compiled a list of five voices who are leading the charge in their fields to make 2021 closer toward progress. 

Here’s our list of 5 leaders tackling 2021:

Kimberlé Crenshaw, African American Policy Forum

Tackling: 

Racial Justice and Social Equity

Why we follow:

Kimberlé Crenshaw is the Executive Director of the African American Policy Forum, a social justice think tank that focuses on tackling gender and diversity issues. The AAPF is the intersectional organization behind the #SayHerName and #BlackGirlsMatter movements. In addition to being a spearhead in the social justice movement, she also is a lawyer and educator on critical race theory, civil rights, and constitutional law. Her Twitter feed includes valuable information on the conversations surrounding race and intersectionality. 

Alphonso David, Human Rights Campaign

Tackling: 

LGBTQIA+ Rights and Legislation

Why we follow:

Alphonso David is the President of the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest organization fighting for equality for the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to his role at the HRC, he is also a practicing attorney and LGBTQ civil rights leader. Fun fact, he was the first person of color and civil rights lawyer to hold the presidential role for the organization. Alphonso has spent years advocating for legal and social equality and his Twitter feed is filled with the great work of the HRC as well as other social equity organizations.

Patricia Espinosa, UN Climate Change

Tackling: 

Climate Change Policy

Why we follow:

Patricia Espinosa is the Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change. She has served as the Mexican Ambassador to Germany before taking her role at the UN. Her work aims to address climate change and its effects. Her feed is filled with educational resources and updates on various nations’ efforts in stopping climate change. Additionally, the UNCC’s efforts are also available on Twitter in English, Spanish, French, and German. 

Amesh Adalja, Johns Hopkins University

Tackling: 

The Coronavirus Pandemic

Why we follow:

Amesh Adalja is an infectious disease MD as well as a Senior Scholar at Johns Hopkins University Center for Health and Security. His work surrounds pandemic policy, emerging infections, and preventing bioterror. He currently is one of the many valuable medical experts who uses his social media platforms to educate others on evolving issues surrounding the coronavirus. Follow him for a refreshing take on public health in the modern age. 

Joe Biden, President of the United States

Tackling: 

Public Policy and Social Reform

Why we follow:

Lastly, one of the most notable voices to follow in 2021 is the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden. Coming out of a monumental presidential election, Joe Biden will be tasked with leading the United States in every major issue the country faces. From rebuilding a polarized nation to tackling the pandemic, Biden’s @POTUS account will be a valuable one to follow to stay informed. 

________

Though each of our picks is leading the charge, it is important to remember that a movement is not one person, but the combined power of a community. We hope you follow our picks and dive deeper into the movements that you’re passionate about. Remember, 2020 has shown us how strong we are when the going gets tough. So let’s roll up our selves and let’s get going.

For those looking to educate themselves more on these social movements, check out our article, 5 Voices to Amplify: Authors Edition, for book recommendations on literature that has inspired millions, shaped movements, and shaken the status quo.