Founded the Critical Race Theory Workshop, Co-Founded the African American Policy Forum, Author of ‘On Intersectionality: Essential Writings’ & Won the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement Award

Kimberlé Crenshaw is an internationally recognised professor, civil rights advocate and pioneering scholar whose work has transformed the way society understands inequality. A leading authority at both UCLA and Columbia Law School, she coined the term “intersectionality” to explain how overlapping systems of oppression uniquely affect Black women. Her career spans groundbreaking legal scholarship, activism and policy influence, making her one of the most powerful voices on race, gender and social justice. As a speaker, Kimberlé captivates audiences with her clarity, passion and ability to translate complex issues into compelling calls for change.

Kimberlé holds a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and a Master of Laws from the University of Wisconsin, establishing her as a leading authority in constitutional law and civil rights. At UCLA and Columbia Law School, she has built an outstanding academic career teaching courses on gender, race, human rights, social justice and constitutional law. Beyond the classroom, she founded the Critical Race Theory Workshop and co-founded the African American Policy Forum, a think tank advancing research and advocacy on racial and gender equity.

Her expertise in intersectionality has positioned her as a trusted voice in policy and activism, guiding discussions on how systemic inequalities intersect to shape lived experiences. Kimberlé has lectured widely across North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia, influencing debates on law, justice and democracy. Her achievements have been recognised with awards, including the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement Award and the American Bar Foundation’s Outstanding Scholar Award. With decades of scholarship, advocacy and global impact, Kimberlé continues to push forward conversations on equity and justice at the highest levels.

Kimberlé is the author of ‘On Intersectionality: Essential Writings’, and co-editor of’ Critical Race Theory: The Key Writings that Formed the Movement’, works that have become cornerstones in the study of race, law and gender. She has also co-edited influential texts, including ‘The Race Track: How the Myth of Equal Opportunity Defeats Racial Justice’ and ‘#SayHerName: Black Women’s Stories of State Violence and Public Violence’. Beyond her books, Kimberlé contributes widely to academic journals and public commentary, ensuring her ideas shape both scholarship and public debate on race, gender and justice.

Why Hire Kimberlé Crenshaw?

Audiences book Kimberlé because she is one of the most influential thinkers on race, gender and social justice of our time. Her groundbreaking concept of intersectionality has shaped global conversations on equality and continues to inform activism, policy and education. As co-founder of the African American Policy Forum, she has championed campaigns amplifying the voices of Black women affected by state violence. Her speaking career includes delivering a TED talk on “The Urgency of Intersectionality“, as well as appearances at international conferences such as the Makers Conference and the Women of the World Festival.

Recognised with honours including the title of Most Inspiring Feminist by Ms Magazine, Kimberlé brings authority, insight and passion to every stage. Her ability to challenge assumptions while offering practical frameworks for inclusion makes her an unforgettable presence for audiences across academia, business and civil society.

To book Kimberlé to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.