Entrepreneur, Author & Community Organizer; Co-Founder of The Hear Foundation; Author of "An Unspeakable Hope"
Leon Ford Jr. Biography
Leon Ford Jr. is an entrepreneur, author, international speaker, community organizer, and activist focused on social justice, police reform, and mental health advocacy. Ford has dedicated his career to addressing police brutality and advancing community wellness, with a particular emphasis on holistic approaches to resilience and personal transformation.
At age 19, Ford was shot five times by a Pittsburgh police officer during a case of mistaken identity. The incident left him paralyzed and coincided with the birth of his child. Ford was acquitted of aggravated assault charges, and the city of Pittsburgh settled a civil rights lawsuit with him for $5.5 million. Ford has spoken publicly about how he navigated these challenges, emphasizing forgiveness and the pursuit of social change through activism.
Ford works with police departments on cultural competency and collaborates with legislators to reform use-of-force policies. He co-founded The Hear Foundation with former Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Chief Scott Schubert and serves on the Pennsylvania Citizen Law Enforcement Advisory and Review Commission, which brings together law enforcement and criminal justice reform advocates to promote public safety and accountability. As a member of The Aspen Institute's Civil Society Fellowship, Ford supports the development of future leaders in activism and community organizing.
Ford is the author of several books, including his memoir, "An Unspeakable Hope," "Untold: Testimony and Guide to Overcoming Adversity," and "The Leon Self-Care Handbook: From Surviving to Thriving." He has also executive produced the documentary "Leon," which received recognition at the Cannes Film Festival, and "Breaking Bread: A Conversation on Race in America," which won a Shorty Award. Ford's honors include the President's Volunteer Service Award, The Root 100, Pittsburgh's 40 Under 40, Forbes 30 Under 30, and the National Urban League Community Service Award. Through public speaking, mentorship, and advocacy, Ford continues to contribute to conversations on criminal justice reform, community empowerment, and mental health.
Leon Ford Jr. Videos
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How do I book Leon Ford Jr. to speak at my event?
Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Leon Ford Jr. for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Leon Ford Jr., or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Leon Ford Jr. or any other speaker of your choice. -
What are the speaker fees for Leon Ford Jr.
Speaking fees for Leon Ford Jr., or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Leon Ford Jr. are $10,000 - $20,000 for live events and under $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Leon Ford Jr., click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does Leon Ford Jr. speak about?
Leon Ford Jr. is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Anti-Racism, Author, Black Heritage, Black History Month, Business, Civil Rights, Culture, Disability, Diversity & Inclusion, Entrepreneurship, Government, Inspirational, Law, Non-Fiction Authors, Social Activism, Social Entrepreneurship, Social Justice -
Where does Leon Ford Jr. travel from?
Leon Ford Jr. generally travels from Pennsylvania, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
Who is Leon Ford Jr.’s agent?
AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Leon Ford Jr. for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Leon Ford Jr. for your next private or corporate function. -
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Leon Ford Jr. is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Leon Ford Jr. for your event is $10,000 - $20,000. Leon Ford Jr. generally travels from PA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Maya Wiley, Yoruba Richen, Joshua Dodds, Justin Hansford and Dr. Marc Lamont Hill. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Leon Ford Jr. for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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