Shannon LaNier

Shannon LaNier is the sixth great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson and a descendant of Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman with whom Jefferson had a long-term relationship. A television personality, actor, social media influencer, and public speaker, LaNier has authored works reflecting on his family's complex legacy and the historical narratives surrounding Jefferson and Hemings. He has been vocal about the need to acknowledge the contributions of Black Americans to the nation's history, particularly in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.