Aishah Shahidah Simmons Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Aishah Shahidah Simmons is a groundbreaking American filmmaker, author, and cultural worker whose work seeks to address and disrupt the realities of sexual violence against Black women and girls. Her life story is deeply intertwined with the social justice movements she champions. Born into a politically active family, Aishah was immersed in activism from a young age. Her path was influenced by her parents’ commitment to serve their community and challenge systemic injustices. This early exposure laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to fighting for gender and racial equality. Simmons is best known for her internationally acclaimed film, *NO! The Rape Documentary*. Released in 2006, the film is recognized for breaking silences within African American communities and sparking conversations on sexual violence and healing. A labor of love that took over a decade to complete, *NO!* combines testimonies, archival footage, and interviews with scholars and activists to offer an unflinching exploration of the realities faced by Black survivors of sexual violence. The film is not just a document of harrowing experiences; it is a rallying cry for justice, education, and awareness. Apart from her filmmaking, Aishah is a published author. Her work includes contributions to several anthologies, as well as her own books, such as *Love WITH Accountability: Digging Up the Roots of Child Sexual Abuse*. In this collection, she curates a wide range of voices to reckon with the often-ignored issue of child sexual abuse in communities of color. Aishah’s writing, much like her films, is deliberately intersectional, blending personal narrative with scholarly analysis to bring light to the pervasive injustices impacting marginalized communities. Aishah’s advocacy extends beyond her artistic endeavors. She is a noted educator and sought-after speaker who shares her insights on the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Drawing upon her personal experiences and depth of knowledge, Simmons effectively engages diverse audiences in lectures, workshops, and panels. Her ability to translate complex concepts into accessible language is a testament to her deep understanding of the issues and her commitment to fostering informed discourse. Throughout her career, Aishah Shahidah Simmons has received numerous accolades and awards, recognizing her as a leading voice in her field. Despite these honors, she remains deeply grounded in her community-focused approach. Simmons exemplifies the power of storytelling in advocacy, not only to shed light on injustice but to envision and inspire pathways towards liberation and healing.