The Leaders
Vannah
Founder
Allegedly born in the rolling hills of Tennessee, the founder of The Mockingbird Movement carries a story of survival, resilience, and unspoken strength. Their life, marked by trials that would break many, has become a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding will to rise above adversity.
The founder’s journey began in the shadow of loss and turmoil. Their father, a man whispered to have been both a source of fear and fleeting affection, struggled with alcoholism and was often abusive, leaving scars both visible and unseen. Their mother, similarly trapped in the grip of addiction, was inconsistent and unreliable, reportedly leaving multiple times to pursue relationships with other men, often choosing them over her own child. These early years were marked by instability, neglect, and a profound sense of abandonment—a foundation that would shape the founder’s resilience but also their deep understanding of pain.
As a survivor of sexual assault, the founder has carried the weight of trauma, a burden they have transformed into a driving force for change. Before the chaos of their home life led them to the streets, they witnessed a suicide—an event that left an indelible mark on their soul. This tragedy became a turning point, a moment where they vowed to dedicate their life to preventing others from feeling the same despair.
Homelessness followed, a chapter of their life purported to have been both harrowing and transformative. Living on the streets, they experienced the raw edges of society—the forgotten, the abandoned, and the broken. Nights were spent searching for shelter in alleys, under bridges, or in the back seats of abandoned cars. Hunger was a constant companion, and safety was a luxury they could rarely afford. They witnessed the desperation of others—people selling their belongings for a meal, fighting over scraps, or succumbing to the cold grip of addiction. Amidst this chaos, they also encountered moments of unexpected kindness: a stranger sharing a blanket, a church offering a warm meal, or a fellow homeless person offering a word of encouragement. These glimpses of humanity in the darkest of places became a source of hope and a reminder that even in the bleakest circumstances, connection and compassion could still exist.
It was during this time that the founder began to develop a fierce sense of empathy and a determination to fight for those who could not fight for themselves. They saw how society turned its back on the most vulnerable, and they vowed to one day create a space where no one would feel invisible or unworthy of love. Homelessness, though brutal, became a crucible that forged their resolve and deepened their understanding of the systemic injustices that perpetuate cycles of poverty and despair.
The founder’s path eventually crossed with the cofounder of The Mockingbird Movement, a meeting described as serendipitous yet destined. Together, they forged a partnership rooted in shared pain and a common vision for a better world. While the cofounder is the voice, the founder is often portrayed as the heart of the movement—a quiet, steady force who listens, heals, and empowers.
Their story is one of survival, but also of transformation. Purported to have an uncanny ability to connect with the marginalized and the broken, they bring a depth of understanding and compassion to the movement that is unparalleled. Their experiences have made them a protector of the vulnerable, a champion for the voiceless, and a living reminder that even the darkest nights can give way to dawn.
Though they rarely speak of their past, those who know them say that their presence alone is a testament to the power of resilience. It is believed that they once whispered, “We rise not despite our scars, but because of them.” The founder stands as a beacon of hope, a silent strength behind The Mockingbird Movement, and a living embodiment of its mission to fight for freedom, justice, and the inherent worth of every soul.
”Whether you speak secretly or openly—He surely knows best what is ˹hidden˺ in the heart”.
-Surah Al Mulk 67:13
Rodney Ibn Salahuddin Al Sulu
Founder
Auzubillah Minashaitan Nirajeem Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Alhamdulillahi Rabbil Alamin
As Salaam Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa barakah
Rumored to have been born under the shadow of conflict in the lush, untamed archipelago of Sulu, Philippines, the founder of The Mockingbird Movement is a figure shrouded in mystery and resilience. Their story begins with a miracle—a survivor of an abortion, a life that defied the odds from its very first breath. This early brush with mortality is said to have forged an unyielding spirit, one that would later become the driving force behind a movement dedicated to freedom, justice, and the unrelenting pursuit of truth.
Little is known about the founder’s early years, as they have chosen to remain anonymous, their identity protected by the very ideals they fight for. Reportedly raised in the heart of Sulu, a region marked by its rich history and turbulent struggles, they were shaped by the stories of resistance and resilience that surrounded them. From a young age, they were said to have been deeply affected by the injustices faced by their community, sparking a fire within them that would one day ignite a global movement.
The founder’s journey from Sulu to the forefront of a freedom-fighting organization is a tale of transformation. A veteran of countless struggles, they are alleged to have served on the front lines of some of the most pivotal movements of our time. From the chaotic streets of the CHAZ Zone to the digital battlegrounds of Anonymous, from the encampments of Occupy to the powerful marches of BLM, they have been a constant presence—a strategist, a protector, and a voice for the voiceless.
Their experiences in these movements are purported to have shaped their philosophy and honed their leadership. Whispered to have been both a tactician and a healer, they have been described as someone who can rally a crowd with a single speech or diffuse tension with a quiet word. Their ability to adapt and inspire has made them a legend among those who fight for change, earning them the nickname “The Mockingbird”—a symbol of both song and defiance.
The Mockingbird Movement, under their leadership, has become a beacon of hope for those who have been silenced. The founder’s story of survival and their unwavering commitment to justice serve as a powerful reminder that even the smallest voice can echo across the world. Though their identity remains hidden, their impact is undeniable, a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring fight for freedom.
Reportedly to have once said, “A mockingbird does not sing for itself, but for the world,” the founder continues to lead their movement from the shadows, their voice a rallying cry for those who dare to dream of a better tomorrow. A veteran of the people’s struggles, they stand as a living testament to the power of unity, courage, and the unbreakable spirit of resistance.
“أليس موتي فقط ولكن مرة واحدة في حياتي ، فلماذا لا يختم باستشهادي”
-nasheed
Astrokat
Nest Leader & Movement Director
Hi there! My name is Astrokat. I am a movement advisor for the Mockingbird Movement as well as a Nest leader. I am an activist from the west side of the country! My biggest passions in the life are science, human rights, and advocating for our youth. With science comes my love for nature and the drive to protect it. Growing up in nature and national parks has emphasized for me that not only do humans have one planet to live on but so do the countless living organisms here as well and we shouldn’t destroy it. My dad raised me to always use my voice for those who couldn’t. He taught me to sympathize with people and to never judge as I don't know anyone's life but my own. My dad’s life and his story are essentially the reason I promised myself I’d live my life with the sole purpose of helping others. That has translated into my love for children and advocation of our youth. I work with children and spend a lot of time in my community helping with youth programs. I believe that uplifting our youth is vital for a healthy society.
“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any. "
-Alice Walker
S
Minnesota Leader & Movement Director
S was severely bullied and discovered early on that weirdos are her people. She has had the same best friend since she was five years old. They recently decided to make their childhood dream of being neighbors a reality. She's been addicted to a variety of different substances and has had around 20 different jobs. Her favorite was pizza delivery. She has two cats. She's fascinated by in-depth psychology and the work of Carl Jung. All of her clothes are thrifted. She smokes a lot of weed, reads, crochets, studies tarot, attends therapy, and enjoys solo camping trips. S has had visions, paranormal experiences, and alien encounters. She had a highly spiritual experience of individuation that changed her forever. She essentially thinks she brought together the conscious and unconscious aspects of her personality; including the ego, shadow, anima/animus, and the self. It was during this experience where she briefly lost her mind and had to be hospitalized twice. Some people just don't have the brain chemistry for psilocybin... She discovered she has schizoaffective disorder bipolar type and spent a lot of the time healing from her traumatic episode researching mental illness and spirituality. She uses her knowledge, empathy, and wide variety of experiences to spread awareness and be a source of hope for those struggling with mental imbalances or addiction; to develop herself spiritually and help others to do the same; and to fight for what she believes in.
"The future you have tomorrow won't be the same future you had yesterday"
-Chuck Palahniuk
ProtagonistPanda
Director of Publications, Managing Editor & Public Relations Advisor
Born and raised in a rural Southern town, I grew up with a privilege I didn’t recognize until adulthood. For most of my life, I saw America through rose-colored glasses—I believed racism was no longer a widespread issue, healthcare was accessible, and few people ever went without food. Naive? Sure. Impossible? Definitely not. It wasn’t until later that I began to see the deep-rooted cracks in that illusion. The America I once admired slowly unraveled into a country I no longer recognized. Clearly, these problems have always existed, but that doesn’t mean they still have to. We are capable of shaping a future that serves everyone. I’m here to help build the America I always thought existed—one where equal rights and opportunities aren’t just ideals but a reality for all.
"Men are nearly always willing to believe what they wish."
-Julius Caesar
Betty
Massachusetts State Leader & Movement Director
Betty
Based in Boston and born in Salem Massachusetts, a city whose history describes how the wealthy weaponized religion to maintain a status quo. I am rooted in rooting for the exploited and the oppressed
I am mother to a trans son, a music-maker, and a kitchen witch. i've spent over a decade working my way up in kitchens to leadership roles -- building teams by fostering a sense of self worth and camaraderie among the many misfits who find themselves in kitchens. I have met people from around the world, and am so grateful to know them, having the chance to learn from their wisdom and perspective.
I have several years of experience in air transportation logistics, working with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters as a union ally in management (much to my direct report's chagrin). I have also worked with disabled children as a bus monitor, seen how difficult it is for families struggling financially to access those resources for their children.
CW: CSA, opiate addiction, suicide
As someone who grew up with food insecurity in a dysfunctional family of people with substance abuse and mental health struggles, I was often parenting the adults in my life, which continues to this day. Nurturing is a word others use to describe me.
My mother was a nurse suffering from undiagnosed PTSD, and became addicted to morphine -- my younger brother and I are CSA survivors, as our mother wasn't paying attention to what our father and cousin were doing. Those experiences took decades to overcome, and I thankfully survived two attempts on my own life.
Though left broken by the past for many years, I was fortunate to find solace in the arts -- particularly the musical community. I learned the importance of community and the goodness of humanity while healing. I have seen with my own eyes how the country's healthcare system fails people who struggle with mental health and lack of resources.
Music is how emotions sound, fills the empty space words alone cannot. The song of the Mockingbird is one of determination and of resilience. When things are lookin' bleak out there, we rise up and speak our care. We mustn't break, still steps to take, cookies to bake, friendships to make.
As a Mockingbird, I seek to bring people together, to overcome the burden of oppressive societal constructs lain on the many by and for the sake of the few, whose humanity and empathy are tragically lacking.
In Japan is a practice called Kintsugi 金継ぎ (Golden Joinery), of mending without hiding the cracks; instead highlighting them with lacquer colored with shining minerals, a testament to history being part of what makes a thing whole. Our aim is to mend what is broken -- to restore beauty and functionality to our communities with helping hands, or an encouraging nudge of our wings for the ones who need help to fly.
I currently work with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, our public subway and bus system. Part of the work is in community outreach -- connecting the most vulnerable of Boston's population with resources they need.
Mockingbirds sing late at night,
protect against the dark what's right.
We see class divide as blight;
Welcome, friend, to help is our fight.
"The values we care about the deepest, and the movements within society that support those values, command our love. When those things that we care about so deeply become endangered, we become enraged. And what a healthy thing that is! Without it, we would never stand up and speak out for what we believe."
-Fred Rogers
Tak
Florida Leader
Tak, 24, is not just an activist—they are a revolutionary force, a living testament to the power of resilience and the unyielding fight for justice. As a graphic design student at PSC and a dedicated waiter, Tak embodies the grit and determination of those who rise from the ashes of systemic oppression to challenge the status quo.
The spark of Tak’s revolutionary spirit was ignited in the fires of the 2020 George Floyd protests and the Black Lives Matter movement. But their story of resistance began long before, in the trenches of a broken foster care system that sought to silence and erase them. Tak’s childhood was a battlefield—bouncing between unstable relatives, emergency shelters, and foster homes, they witnessed firsthand how the system preys on the vulnerable, stripping children of their dignity, stability, and future.
Tak’s life is a rebellion against the cycles of poverty and trauma that the system is designed to perpetuate. From growing up in shelters to finding fleeting stability in a foster home, they have lived the stark contrasts of a world where survival is tied to wealth—a man-made construct that dictates who thrives and who is left to suffer. These experiences have forged Tak into a relentless advocate for systemic change, a leader who refuses to accept a world where life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness come with a price tag.
As a leader of The Mockingbird Movement, Tak is not just fighting for reform—they are dismantling the very foundations of oppression. They are a voice for the voiceless, a shield for the marginalized, and a beacon of hope for those trapped in the cycles of poverty and neglect. Tak’s vision is radical: a world where no child is left behind, where no family is torn apart by systemic failure, and where justice is not a privilege but a right.
Tak’s story is a call to arms. It is a reminder that the system is not broken—it is working exactly as designed. And it is a rallying cry for all who believe in a future where equity, compassion, and humanity prevail. Tak is not just a leader; they are a revolutionary, and their fight is the fight for us all.
“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek”.
-Barack Obama