Picture a Chicago-born wordsmith who flipped feminism on its head with a single hashtag—meet Mikki Kendall! As an author, activist, and cultural critic, Kendall has carved a bold path in modern discourse, blending sharp wit with unflinching honesty. Her groundbreaking book Hood Feminism and viral social media campaigns have made her a beacon for intersectionality, challenging mainstream feminism to embrace inclusivity.
With a knack for tackling tough topics like race, poverty, and representation, Kendall’s work resonates with readers craving authentic voices. Whether through essays, graphic novels, or Twitter threads, she’s redefining what it means to fight for justice in today’s world.
The Making of Mikki Kendall
Born on October 23, 1976, in Chicago’s vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood, Mikki Kendall grew up surrounded by the city’s rich cultural tapestry. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2005) and DePaul University, where she earned a Master’s in Writing and Publishing, Kendall’s academic roots fueled her incisive voice. Before diving into writing full-time, she served in the U.S. Army and worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs until 2013, experiences that grounded her perspective on systemic issues.
Kendall’s journey as a writer began under the pen name Karnythia, blogging since 2003 about everything from Chicago violence to reproductive health. Her 2013 hashtag #solidarityisforwhitewomen sparked a global conversation about racism in feminist circles, cementing her as a force for change.
Mikki Kendall’s Unforgettable Stories
Kendall’s bibliography is a testament to her versatility. Her 2020 book Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot is a New York Times bestseller that critiques mainstream feminism’s focus on privilege over survival. With searing essays, Kendall highlights how issues like food insecurity, housing, and medical care are feminist fights, especially for marginalized communities.
In 2019, she released Amazons, Abolitionists, and Activists: A Graphic History of Women’s Fight for Their Rights, a vivid graphic novel illustrated by A. D’Amico. It traces women’s struggles across history, blending accessibility with depth. Kendall also co-edited the 2016 sci-fi anthology Hidden Youth, showcasing her love for speculative fiction. Her essays, appearing in The Guardian, TIME, and The Washington Post, tackle pop culture, police brutality, and more with a sharp, intersectional lens.
Kendall’s style is conversational yet commanding, weaving personal experiences with broader social critiques. Her work doesn’t just inform—it demands action, urging readers to rethink feminism’s priorities.
Why Mikki Kendall Matters
Mikki Kendall’s impact lies in her ability to make feminism accessible and accountable. By centering marginalized voices, she’s broadened the movement’s scope, inspiring activists and writers to address systemic inequities. Her hashtags, like #fasttailedgirls and #AbuserDynamics, have fueled viral discussions, amplifying stories often ignored. Recognized by TIME, BBC, and the Chicago Review of Books, Kendall’s influence extends beyond the page, shaping how we talk about justice today.
As a speaker, she’s graced NPR, The Daily Show, and universities, bringing her message to diverse audiences. Her 2017 Best Food Essay award for a piece on hot sauce and Beyoncé proves even her lighter work carries weight. Kendall’s legacy is a feminism that fights for everyone, not just the few.
- Born: October 23, 1976, Chicago, IL
- Key Works: Hood Feminism (2020), Amazons, Abolitionists, and Activists (2019), Hidden Youth (2016)
- Awards: Chicago Review of Books Award, Best Food Essay (2017)
- Notable Hashtag: #solidarityisforwhitewomen (2013)
Snag Hood Feminism and dive into Mikki Kendall’s bold, inclusive world—your perspective won’t be the same!