Time magazine has released their annual Top 100 Most Influential People list. It splits the lists into pioneers, artists, leaders, and icons. Regardless of how you may feel about the individuals listed, there is no denying that everyone listed is someone of importance on the national and international stage.
In addition to just seeing who made the list, I love seeing who Time chose to write about them. One of my favorites last year was Leslie Jones being featured and Russel Crowe writing a very sweet piece about her. This year includes a very thoughtful piece from actress Taraji P. Henson about rapper Cardi B, Adele praising Rihanna’s individualism, and Cyndi Lauper reminding us all Kesha’s bravery.
The complete list can be seen here, but here are some of the standouts:
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“When I first came up, people said, “She’s too edgy.” But I can do Shakespeare in the Park! You can’t judge me based on where I come from or the colloquialisms that I speak with, because that’s who I am. And when you are cool with who you are, no one can use it against you.
I identify with Cardi B, because she knows that too.” (More here)
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“The innovative and groundbreaking world of Rihanna that no one else will ever be safe in and get away with copying. She makes her own rules and bends ours.” (More here)
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“When I first met Tarana Burke, I found a kindred spirit, somebody else who’s been screaming into the hurricane. Somebody else who’s been advocating for survivors of rape and sexual assault, and specifically young black women, whose voices have been silenced at best and completely erased from the national dialogue at worst.” (More here)
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“Our history is defined by the youthful push to make America more just, more compassionate, more equal under the law. This generation—of Parkland, of Dreamers, of Black Lives Matter—embraces that duty. If they make their elders uncomfortable, that’s how it should be.” (More here)
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“Kesha spoke out against sexual harassment and assault long before the #MeToo movement was making headlines, and nearly lost her career as a result. But instead of going away quietly, she fought back. And she made Rainbow, an album that I think includes some of the best songs she’s ever written.” (More here)
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“There has been much said about her love of the current President. Although I don’t understand it in any way, I love her still. I have seen the indefensible tweets from her macadamia-nut farm—and I forgive her.” (More here)
Who are you surprised to see make the list? Pleased to see? Who’s missing?
(via Time, image: Screengrab)
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