The 2024 The Closers List, and Announcing 2026.

The 2024 TIME Closers List was a moment of substance for me. It reminded me, that what I was ‘about,’ mattered.

The TIME Closers List is not about visibility. It is about measurable impact.

Each year, TIME curates this list to honor influential Black leaders who are actively working to create a more equitable America. The focus is clear: highlight those committed to closing racial equity gaps — beginning with the Black-white wealth gap — and confronting the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality.

That clarity of mission matters.

Under the leadership of CEO Jess Sibley and Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs, TIME has demonstrated that institutions can evolve while staying grounded in purpose. The inaugural 2024 list focused squarely on the racial wealth gap. Since then, the platform has expanded to recognize leaders driving progress in environmental justice, health equity, policy reform, business, advocacy, culture, and community investment.

This year’s 2026 class — including leaders such as Dara Eskridge of Invest STL, Marc Philpart of the Black Freedom Fund, and actor Danielle Deadwyler — reflects that broader lens. They represent different disciplines, but a shared commitment to closing gaps that have persisted for generations.

Releasing the list at the start of Black History Month is also intentional. It reminds us that history is not only something we commemorate — it is something we continue to write.

To be recognized among individuals working to overcome systemic inequality is an honor. But the greater responsibility is the work itself.

Closing gaps requires capital, courage, collaboration, and institution-building. It requires movements in the streets — and movements in the suites. And it requires leaders willing to measure progress, not just talk about it.

And it was great to spent time with other great leaders who also support TIME here, including my friends Angela Williams and Van Jones, who was recently announced as co chair of HOPE AI.

My appreciation to Jess Sibley, Sam Jacobs, and the entire TIME team for using their platform to spotlight those doing the hard work of closing — and building — for the future.

John Hope Bryant