IRIS MORALES is a lifelong activist, educator, and outspoken advocate for social justice and the decolonization of Puerto Rico. Her extensive experience as a community organizer and activist provides a deeply nuanced perspective on social justice issues. In her groundbreaking books, Revisiting Herstories: The Young Lords Party and Through the Eyes of Rebel Women, she documents the activism of Puerto Ricans in the social movements of the 1960s and 1970s.
Morales' latest anthology, Latinas: Gender, Class & Race, is a compelling collection that focuses on the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and working-class women in the post-COVID era. This anthology is the second volume in a series of Latina writings she has meticulously curated. In addition, her anthology Voices from Puerto Rico: Post-Hurricane Maria captures stories of resilience and community-building efforts amid a humanitarian crisis. She has also edited poetry collections and plays, exploring Puerto Rican history and culture.
Morales is co-author with Dr. Raquel M. Ortiz of Vicki: A Summer of Change, a bilingual children’s book. She is also the producer, writer, and co-director of the pioneering and award-winning documentary, !Palante, Siempre Palante! Morales' work has been widely anthologized, and she is a frequent speaker at conferences and panels. She actively collaborates to enhance historical awareness and advance social change.
When not writing, Morales enjoys mentoring young activists and spending quality time with family and friends.
Morales is a graduate of New York University Law School and holds an MFA in Integrated Media Arts. Follow her for updates on speaking engagements and ongoing projects.