From an international cast of leading activist
communicators, a timely and instructive handbook for telling stories
that change the world
The twenty-first century has seen a profound shift in the global
sociopolitical and economic landscape, shaped by seismic interventions
ranging from the War on Terror to the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2000
and 2024, social movements like Black Lives Matter, #MeToo, climate
justice, the Fight for $15, Palestine liberation, health care for all,
and queer and trans resistance have illuminated a new narrative—one
rooted in an inclusive vision of society, driven by a newly politicized
and radicalized generation. This shift did not happen by chance.
Movement workers have meticulously crafted communications and narrative
strategies, honing their political messaging and storytelling to seize
narrative power in today’s struggles.
In Liberation Stories, today’s foremost progressive and
leftist communicators, organizers, artists, journalists, and academics
share their collective wisdom in one powerful volume. Featuring in-depth
case studies of both contemporary and historical movements, Liberation Stories
distills successful theories, strategies, and tactics for anyone
wanting to understand—and participate in—the diverse initiatives
currently shaping our society.
As far-right and conservative movements gain traction worldwide—attacking our books, our bodies, and our democracies—Liberation Stories emerges as a vital resource for constructing the world we envision, one story at a time.
“In a moment where so much of the public discourse is about the chaos
and confusion being unleashed, amplifying the narrative interventions
that have worked and are working is critical. It’s exciting to add Liberation Stories to the cannon of knowledge-building materials necessary to keep our work alive.” —Tarana Burke, author, organizer, and founder of the #MeToo movement
“Liberation Stories deftly threads lessons learned by our
foremost freedom fighters, a road map for utilizing our truths and
narrative power, and a vital charge to demand enduring change.”
—Raquel Willis, author and co-founder, Gender Liberation Movement