Roxane Gay
New York Times bestselling author | Feminist thought and organizational culture expert
About
Roxane Gay is a New York Times bestselling author who has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary feminist discourse. Her honest and nuanced approach to feminism challenges traditional expectations and embraces the complexities of modern identity. Through her writing and speaking, Gay explores the contradictions inherent in feminist thought while maintaining a commitment to progress and equality.
Gay's work resonates with audiences because she refuses to present herself as a perfect feminist icon. Instead, she openly discusses her own struggles with feminist ideals, creating space for others to acknowledge their own imperfections while still working toward social change. Her TEDWomen 2015 talk "Confessions of a bad feminist" exemplifies this approach, offering a refreshing perspective that has influenced how organizations and individuals think about feminism in practice.
Gay's expertise extends beyond literature into organizational culture, where she helps leaders understand how feminist principles can create more inclusive and effective workplaces.
What Roxane Talks About
Redefining feminism for the modern workplace
Embracing imperfection while pursuing social change
Building inclusive organizational cultures through feminist principles
Navigating identity and authenticity in professional settings
Creating space for difficult conversations about equality and inclusion
Talks2
Confessions of a bad feminist
When writer Roxane Gay dubbed herself a "bad feminist," she was making a joke, acknowledging that she couldn't possibly live up to the demands for perfection of the feminist movement. But she's realized that the joke rang hollow. In a thoughtful and provocative talk, she asks us to embrace all flavors of feminism -- and make the small choices that, en masse, might lead to actual change.
More Talks
Featured Session
At a Glance
Is this you?
Claim this profile to edit your bio, add talks, and get verified.
Know a talk we're missing?
Get in Touch
Save for Later
Frequently Appeared With
Speakers who have appeared at the same events
Heather C. McGhee
Political Commentator | Racial Equity & Economic Justice
2 shared events · SXSW, TEDWomen
Aarathi Krishnan
Digital Ethics Advocate | Ethical Framework Development for Humanitarian Technology
1 shared event · TEDWomen

Adam Rippon
Olympic Medalist, Figure Skater, On-Air Host & LGBTQ+ Activist
1 shared event · SXSW
Agnes Binagwaho
Vice Provost, University of Global Health Equity | Transforming Healthcare in Rwanda
1 shared event · TEDWomen

Ai Weiwei
Artist
1 shared event · SXSW
Alone Forever
Researcher | The Psychology of Loneliness
1 shared event · SXSW

Amanda Nguyen
Activist and astronaut | First Vietnamese woman to go to space
1 shared event · SXSW

Andrew Yang
Co-Chair, Forward Party
1 shared event · SXSW
Similar Speakers
Speakers with related expertise

Aiko Bethea
Diversity & Inclusion Expert | Innovative Organizational Culture Strategist

Michael Fuller
First Black Chief Constable in UK | Author of Kill the Black One First

Azeem Rafiq
Yorkshire Cricketer & DEI Whistleblower | Pioneering Racial Equity in Sports

Michael Bach
Diversity & Inclusion Pioneer | Founder of Canadian Centre for Diversity