Lezley McSpadden-Head is a renowned author and social justice advocate, best known as the mother of Michael O.D. Brown, the African-American teenager whose tragic death at the hands of police officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Missouri, on August 9, 2014, became a catalyst for the Black Lives Matter movement. Born and raised in a close-knit community, McSpadden-Head was just 16 when she welcomed her son, affectionately known as "Mike Mike," into the world. His untimely death shook her to the core and propelled her into the national spotlight. In her memoir, Tell the Truth & Shame the Devil, McSpadden-Head reflects on her journey as a mother and the deep connection she shared with her son, offering a poignant narrative that highlights her unwavering strength and resilience. Through her powerful storytelling, she continues to advocate for justice and reform, amplifying the voices of those affected by systemic inequalities.
