In 2026, there are those who remain firmly committed to the idea of creating a more equitable world.
In California, the Black Freedom Fund, led by CEO, aims to build a $200 million endowment to invest in Black-led organizations. In New York City, curator recently unveiled the newly renovated and expanded building for The Studio Museum in Harlem, a space dedicated to highlighting contemporary Black art. In St. Louis, Invest STL CEO is creating a model to revolutionize how cities invest in their communities. In Hollywood, actor has shared her own experience of food insecurity to advocate for the millions who rely on government benefits. And on a national stage, the president of the WNBA union, is fighting for a collective bargaining agreement that will reward players for their contributions to the explosive growth of women’s basketball.
Philpart, Golden, Eskridge, Pittman, Ogwumike, and 13 other individuals make up the, TIME’s annual list highlighting Black leaders who are having an impact in the arts, academia, sports, health, philanthropy, and more – in their local communities and across the nation. When we sat down with our colleagues this fall to start brainstorming potential candidates for this project, we found a plethora of examples of such leaders who, in various ways, were gaining momentum.
In an interview, actor and 2026 Closer describes her wish to bring more works by Black women to the big screen. “I want to be a tree, stretching out a branch in all directions, enabling others in my community to grow as they need to,” she says.
The year ahead looks promising for Deadwyler, nominated for a NAACP Image Award for her role in 40 Acres, and for many of her fellow Closers. Speed skater made history at the 2022 Beijing Olympics as the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at the Winter Games – and is aiming for gold again in Milan. And in April, public health practitioner and the Black Mamas Matter Alliance will once again celebrate Black Maternal Health Week – an annual campaign to promote learning and connection, and bring about change.
The 2026 Closers are not deterred by forces that might try to阻碍 them. “We have to rise to the occasion,” says author and Black history scholar, who draws inspiration from the examples set by civil rights movement leaders. “We can still read the banned books, teach each other what needs to be taught, and maintain an imagination for a just society.”
See the full list – and read interviews with each of the 2026 Closers -.