Desmond Meade

Desmond Meade, a returning citizen who was formerly homeless, overcame significant challenges to become the Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC), Chair of Floridians for a Fair Democracy, and a graduate of Florida International University College of Law. He is also a Ford Global Fellow and was awarded a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow in 2021. His leadership roles and accolades also extend to being named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2019 and the Orlando Sentinel's Central Floridian of the Year in 2019.

In addition to his renowned influence and leadership, Meade led the successful campaign for Florida Amendment 4 in 2018, restoring voting rights to over 1.4 million Floridians with previous felony convictions. This substantial accomplishment represented the single largest expansion of voting rights in the United States in half a century and put an end to a Jim Crow-era law in Florida. His work has also led him to serve as a Commissioner on the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice and be a member of the Council on Criminal Justice, highlighting his continued commitment to impactful policy changes.

His dedication to the cause of social justice is also reflected in his written work. In 2020, Meade authored his autobiography, "Let My People Vote: My Battle to Restore the Civil Rights of Returning Citizens." The book provides an in-depth perspective on his commitment to his community and the fight for justice.

Meade has regularly appeared on radio and television, speaking before national organizations such as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and Bread for the World. His testimonies have reached Congressional members, staffers, and the United Nations, where he spoke on disenfranchisement in Florida. He even orchestrated a historic meeting at the White House with returning citizens and President Obama's administration. His media appearances include a variety of programs such as "Democracy NOW," "MSNBC with Joy-Ann Reid," "FOX News with Dana Perino and Tucker Carlson," "Samantha Bee," and "All In with Chris Hayes."

Recognitions of Meade's work also include his induction into the Miami Dade College Alumni Hall of Fame and the award of Doctor of Humane Letters from Bard College. Meade is married and has five children. His emphasis on the sacredness of voting and the importance of love in communication strategies highlight his nuanced approach to advocacy and reform.