Who Is Ibram X. Kendi? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ibram X. Kendi was born on August 13, 1982, making him 42 years old in 2025. He is renowned as an American author, historian, and scholar of race and discrimination. Kendi gained prominence for his best-selling books, including "How to Be an Antiracist" and "Stamped from the Beginning," which delve into the history and evolution of racism in America. His insightful perspectives on race have significantly contributed to public discourse and the academic community.
| Occupation | Journalist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 13, 1982 |
| Age | 42 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Ibram X. Kendi's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ibram X. Kendi stands tall at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) and weighs around 185 pounds (84 kg). His measurements complement his broad academic persona, as his physical presence is often matched by his commanding voice and eloquent manner of speaking.
- Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
- Weight: 185 pounds (84 kg)
- Body Stats: Detailed body measurements are not publicly disclosed, but Kendi carries a healthy physique that reflects his dedication to personal well-being.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Ibram X. Kendi is married to his wife, Sadiqa Reynolds, who is also an accomplished figure in her own right. Together, they share the joys of family life, including their two children. Kendi's relationship emphasizes mutual support and understanding, particularly as they navigate the complexities of public life as advocates for racial justice.
- Marital Status: Married
- Wife: Sadiqa Reynolds
- Children: Two
Larry and Carol were both deeply religious and profoundly influenced by black liberation theology. They met as student activists. Both of Kendi's parents are now retired and work as Methodist ministers. He has an older brother, Akil.
Net Worth and Salary
Ibram X. Kendi’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $3 million. His earnings stem from various sources, including book sales, speaking engagements, academic positions, and consulting work focused on diversity and inclusion. With his growing acclaim, Kendi’s salary is a reflection of both his expertise and his significant impact on modern scholarship.
- Estimated Net Worth: $3 million
- Salary: Varies annually based on engagements and contracts
One of Kendi's key ideas is that "racist" is not a term correctly applied to individuals, but rather that it should be used to characterize policies and actions.
Further, there is no such thing as "not racist"—only "racist" and "antiracist." He also says that white people suffer due to racism, not only because it leads them to compromise their own morals, but also because it limits pathways to achieving their own freedom in American society.
In a 2020 GQ profile, Kendi said, “The elevator pitch to everyday people is that instead of thinking about what you could lose if we were to transform this country—because if you are struggling, you certainly are worried about losing—they should be thinking about what they could gain, especially folks who are low- to moderate-income.”
Career, Business and Investments
Kendi's career has seen him hold prominent positions at institutions such as Boston University, where he serves as the Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities and the founding director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research. In addition to his academic work, Kendi has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting antiracist education and policies. His investments in various media and publishing platforms further extend his influence in advocating for racial justice.
- Current Position: Andrew W. Mellon Professor, Boston University
- Initiatives: Founder of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research
- Investments: Media and publishing platforms in racial education
In July 2020, he founded the Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University where he has served as director, having raised an initial funding of $55 million. An internal investigation was launched into potential financial mismanagement of the center.
Kendi was cleared of financial mismanagement, but underwent an audit regarding his leadership and the center's culture. In January 2025, Howard University announced that Kendi would join its faculty and lead its newly founded Institute for Advanced Study, created to investigate the African diaspora.
Due to this, the Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University is slated to close in June 2025.
Social Network
Ibram X. Kendi maintains a significant presence on social media, using platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to engage with his followers. He often shares insights into his work, upcoming projects, and personal reflections on issues surrounding race and justice. His social media influence contributes to his ongoing commitment to raising awareness and fostering discussions about systemic racism.
- Twitter: @IbramKendi
- Instagram: @ibramxkendi
- Facebook: Ibram X. Kendi
In 2005, Kendi received dual B.S. degrees in African American studies and magazine production from Florida A&M University.
One of his professors, who taught a course on African history, described him as a student who sat at the front of class, participated in lively debate with other students, and was "engaged and attentive." Originally intending to become a sports journalist or news broadcaster, he interned for both The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and The Mobile Regi
ster as an undergrad.
After these internships, he became more interested in pursuing a career that involved African American studies. He also interned with the Tallahassee Democrat and wrote a weekly column for Florida A&M's student newspaper, The Famuan.
His Famuan column was discontinued at the request of the Democrat after he wrote an article claiming European people had invented HIV/AIDS to fight off the "extinction" of their race. According to the Washington Post, Kendi realized in college that "judging white people as a group is as racist as judging black people as a group."
Education
Ibram X. Kendi earned his Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies from Florida A&M University and later obtained his Ph.D. in History from Temple University. His academic foundation highlights his deep commitment to understanding and addressing the historical context of racial issues in America.
- Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor’s in African American Studies, Florida A&M University
- Graduate Degree: Ph.D. in History, Temple University
Ibram Xolani Kendi (born Ibram Henry Rogers; August 13, 1982) is an American author, professor, anti-racist activist, and historian of race and discriminatory policy in the U.S. He is author of books including Stamped from the Beginning, How to Be an Antiracist and Antiracist Baby.
He has been interviewed by such figures as Stephen Colbert and Oprah Winfrey, and in 2019, the New York Times referred to him as "one of the country’s most in-demand commentators on racism." Kendi was also included in Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2020.
