Hawk Newsome Net Worth 2024: Hawk Newsome, the co-founder of Black Lives Matter Greater New York, has an undisclosed net worth as of 2024, as there are no verified public records or reliable sources documenting his personal wealth, salary, or earnings from his activism work and previous legal career.
Key Facts About Hawk Newsome
- Hawk Newsome, born Walter Newsome, leads Black Lives Matter of Greater New York.
- He graduated with a law degree from Touro College after initially dropping out of high school.
- He previously worked as a paralegal at Bronx District Attorney’s Office.
- He Ran for New York City Council in 2013, securing 3% of votes.
- He Co-founded BLM Greater NY with sister Chivona Newsome.
- He currently faces controversy over recent statements about the Daniel Penny verdict.
- His organization lost charitable status due to failure to file financial reports.
Who is Hawk Newsome and What Makes Him Notable?
Hawk Newsome, born as Walter Newsome, stands as a prominent civil rights activist and co-founder of Black Lives Matter of Greater New York. His journey from a high school dropout to a law school graduate and influential activist showcases his transformation into a significant voice in contemporary civil rights discussions.
What Shaped His Early Years and Education?
Born and raised in the Bronx, Newsome’s early life presented significant challenges. Despite dropping out of high school, he demonstrated remarkable resilience by obtaining his GED. His academic journey continued as he earned a Bachelor of Science degree before completing his law degree at Touro College. This educational transformation laid the foundation for his future advocacy work.
How Did His Family Influence His Activism?
Newsome’s activism runs deep in his family roots. His parents met during a civil rights protest in the 1960s, instilling in him what he describes as a “revolutionary heart.” His sister, Chivona Newsome, shares his passion for advocacy, co-founding Black Lives Matter of Greater New York alongside him and later pursuing political aspirations of her own.
What Defines His Professional Journey?
Before emerging as an activist, Newsome worked as a paralegal at the Bronx District Attorney’s Office and held a position as a project manager at Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker law firm. In 2013, he ventured into politics, running for New York City Council, though securing only 3% of the vote with what he later described as a platform “too radical” for the time.
What Controversies Surround His Activism?
Newsome’s activist career has been marked by several controversial moments. In 2021, he made headlines for statements regarding vaccine mandates, which he labeled as “racist.” He also sparked debate with comments about potential “riots” and “bloodshed” in response to proposed police unit reinstatements. His relationship with the national Black Lives Matter movement has been complex, with the organization publicly distancing itself from him in 2020.
How Does He Approach Safety and Security?
Given the nature of his work, Newsome takes significant security precautions. He regularly wears a bulletproof vest and utilizes a rotation of rented vehicles for transportation. These measures reflect the high-stakes nature of his activism and the potential risks he faces.
What Recent Events Have Brought Him Into The Spotlight?
In May 2024, Newsome faced legal challenges when he was arrested at Bronx Criminal Court following verbal altercations with court officers. The incident resulted in three summonses for disorderly conduct, adding another chapter to his complex relationship with law enforcement.
How Does He Support His Organization?
His organization, Black Lives Matter of Greater New York, has faced scrutiny over its financial operations. The IRS revoked its charitable status after failing to file financial reports for three consecutive years. Despite this, the organization continues to seek donations through various channels and sells merchandise to support its activities.
What Sets His Leadership Style Apart?
Newsome’s approach to activism combines his legal education with street-level organizing. He frequently emphasizes the importance of understanding both legal frameworks and community needs. His leadership style often involves direct confrontation with authorities while maintaining a focus on policy change and community empowerment.
What Are The Latest Developments Surrounding Hawk Newsome?
The most recent controversy surrounds Newsome’s response to the Daniel Penny verdict in December 2024. Following Penny’s acquittal in the Jordan Neely subway death case, Newsome made significant public statements outside the New York City courthouse. His emotional response included calling for “black vigilantes” and organizing community events across the United States. These statements sparked intense debate about racial justice and the legal system, with Newsome criticizing those supporting Penny’s acquittal as having “racism in their heart.” This latest controversy has intensified media scrutiny of his leadership role and advocacy methods.
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