Latoya Ruby Frazier honors her family and community of Braddock, Pa., through her photography. Photo: John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

LaToya Ruby Frazier honors her family and community of Braddock, Pa., through her photography. Photo: John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

The founders of the #BlackLivesMatters movement.

The founders of the #BlackLivesMatters movement.

She fights for justice. She reminds us that #BlackLivesMatter — and, yes, all lives, for those who insist on getting it twisted. She beats trolls at their own cyber game. She keeps the water on.

She has a way with words — and especially numbers, for she is a genius. For real. She will unearth her roots by any means necessary. She has been acting up for years. She tells our stories, giving voice to the voiceless and making us look good.

She is fast. She is formidable. She is fierce!

Meet the 15 Fiercest Sisters of 2015 — the women who most inspired you over the past year and best reflect our manifesto:

Sonia Sanchez is being celebrated in a new documentary. Photo: Erika Vonie

Sonia Sanchez is being celebrated in a new documentary. Photo: Erika Vonie

“To be fierce is to embrace all that’s wonderful about being a black woman. To live your dreams, celebrate your strengths and appreciate your true beauty. It means being confident and unapologetically you!”