Anthony D Romero, born in New York City, spent his early years in a Bronx public housing project. His parents, Demetrio and Coralie Romero, migrated from Puerto Rico with limited education and employment opportunities. Witnessing his father's struggle against workplace discrimination ignited Anthony's determination to pursue a legal career advocating for the marginalized.
After the family's move to suburban New Jersey, Anthony excelled academically, becoming the first in his family to earn a diploma. He earned a scholarship to Princeton University, graduating from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. Furthering his education, he received a scholarship to Stanford Law School, graduating in 1987.
As a skilled attorney committed to the public interest, Romero worked at the Ford Foundation for nine years, eventually becoming its Global Director for Human Rights and International Cooperation. During his tenure, he oversaw substantial grants to human rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
In 2001, Romero became the Executive Director of the ACLU, the first Latino and openly gay man to hold the position. His leadership coincided with the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, prompting extensive civil liberties challenges. Romero's strategic approach expanded the ACLU's membership and budget, strengthening its influence nationwide. Under Romero's guidance, the ACLU tackled various civil rights issues, including government surveillance, Guantanamo Bay detentions, and LGBTQ+ rights. His tenure witnessed landmark victories in legal battles, advancing reproductive rights and marriage equality.
In recognition of his impactful advocacy, TIME magazine named Anthony Romero one of the "25 Most Influential Hispanic Americans" in 2005. Romero chronicled his experiences and the ACLU's endeavors in his 2007 book, "In Defense of Our America: The Fight for Civil Liberties in the Age of Terror." Continuing his commitment to social justice, Romero received the Margaret Sanger Award in 2011 for his contributions to reproductive health and rights. The ACLU's relevance surged after the 2016 presidential election, reflecting public support for its mission.
Anthony D Romero's journey from Bronx housing projects to leading one of America's foremost civil liberties organizations exemplifies a relentless pursuit of justice and equality.