India Walton

India Walton is a native of Buffalo, New York. After a decades long career as a Registered Nurse, Walton began organizing as a way to influence policy that addressed the root causes of inequities in social determinants of health. She has been a staunch advocate for criminal legal reform, improving access to healthcare, safe staffing, and affordable housing. In 2021 Walton rocked the political establishment in her hometown by challenging and unseating a four-term incumbent in the Democratic Primary for mayor of Buffalo. Since her loss to an unprecedented write-in campaign in the general election, she has continued to advocate for increased civic participation and policies that prioritize the poor and working class as Senior Strategist with RootsAction.

Walton has been featured in several publications including Essence magazine, Teen Vogue, Rolling Stone, Forbes, and The New Yorker. She has spoken at The New School, Harvard University, Rutgers, Niagara University, and numerous national conferences. Walton is known for engaging and informative presentations and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Walton’s experience in frontline healthcare and community activism offers a unique perspective on the intersections of health, racial, economic, and social justice.