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