Sonya Renee Taylor author page

Sonya Renee Taylor biography

Sonya Renee Taylor is an American author, poet, and activist known for her work on body positivity and social justice. She is the founder and radical executive officer of The Body Is Not An Apology, a digital media and education company focused on radical self-love and body empowerment. Taylor’s work spans poetry, performance, and non-fiction writing, and she has been recognised for her contributions to conversations about body image, race, and identity.

Taylor’s debut book, The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love, was first published in 2018 by Berrett-Koehler Publishers. The book explores the intersections of body shame, oppression, and self-acceptance, and has been used in educational and activist settings. In 2021, a revised and expanded edition of the book was released, further developing its themes and practical applications.

In addition to her non-fiction work, Taylor is an accomplished performance poet. She has won multiple poetry slam competitions, including the 2004 National Poetry Slam Individual Championship. Her poetry has been featured in anthologies and on platforms such as NPR, CNN, and Al Jazeera.

Taylor’s advocacy extends to public speaking and workshop facilitation, where she addresses topics such as body liberation, intersectionality, and transformative justice. She has delivered keynote addresses and led workshops internationally, engaging audiences in schools, universities, and community organisations.

Her work has been recognised with awards and honours, including being named one of Planned Parenthood’s 99 Dream Keepers in 2015. Taylor’s influence is evident in her ongoing efforts to promote radical self-love and challenge societal norms around bodies and identity.

In 2022, Sonya Renee Taylor published The Journal: The Body Is Not an Apology, a companion to her earlier book, providing readers with practical exercises and reflections to support their journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.