The Root will announce its 2025 Root 100 honorees today, Thursday, Nov. 6. The 2025 Root 100 will be the first list released under the leadership of Ashley Allison, founder and CEO of Watering Hole Media. Allison acquired The Root this year.
Allison said she sees the release as a new phase in the platform’s mission—rooted in ownership and full control of narrative for Black audiences. “I’ve always been driven by the importance of amplifying voices that shape policy, culture, and community,” Allison said.
The annual ranking highlights influential Black leaders in the United States who have made an impact in their fields and communities across arts, business, activism, media, science, politics, culture, philanthropy, and sports.
“The Root 100 has been a critical platform for recognizing Black leaders who challenge the status quo and push us toward progress. Now, as the new owner, I’m honored to continue this legacy of excellence and committed to reimagining how we honor Black achievements, ensuring that the next generation of leaders in politics, business, and media are celebrated and heard. The Root 100 is more than a list; it’s a call to action and a tribute to those who have made the biggest impact on the culture this year. As we honor those on the list, we’re reaffirming that Black people are shaping the future.”
The Root 100 launched in 2011. The list has become a recurring marker of Black achievement and lifts up public figures and community-based organizers whose work influences culture at scale. It continues to span politics, entertainment, technology, sports, and social justice.
The Root posted last year’s list for reference and said the 2025 list will publish Nov. 6 on TheRoot.com.
