Ernest Crim III

Emmy-nominated griot, Educator, and Cultural Consultant

Fields of expertise:

Author Cultural Leaders Intersectionality Allyship Juneteenth Unconscious Bias Activist / Social Justice Educator Psychological Safety DEI and DEIB Racial Equity Mental Health Black History Month

Ernest Crim III is an Emmy-nominated modern-day griot, public educator, and cultural competency specialist who uses overlooked historical narratives as a catalyst for healing, justice, and transformation. As a former public school history teacher turned speaker, author, producer, and CEO of Crim’s Cultural Consulting, Ernest empowers schools, companies, and communities to bridge cultural divides through truth-telling, empathy, and antiracist education.

His content reaches millions across social media, where he dismantles whitewashed narratives and centers the resilience and innovation of Black people throughout history. A survivor of a viral hate crime, Ernest has transformed personal pain into public purpose, using storytelling to inspire change, challenge injustice, and amplify historically silenced voices.

At his core, Ernest is a liberator, and a protector of legacy who is committed to educating the present while building a freer future for generations to come for all of humanity. And most importantly, he is a family man, who currently resides in the Chicago area with his wife and four daughters.

What our clients say about this speaker

It truly was the best program so far. I stayed fully engaged throughout his entire presentation-Ernest articulated ideas I’ve often reflected on but had never been able to put into words so clearly.

Bruce Rindler, Producer at Cutters Studio.

He was outstanding. He speaks from the heart, connects effortlessly with diverse audiences, and infuses his message with humor and authenticity. His grassroots approach made the message both inspiring and powerful-everyone in the room loved it. I highly recommend him, and fair warning: get in line behind us, because we get first dibs on bringing him back.

Sarah, Las Vegas Public School Administrator.

He is one of the best speakers I’ve ever encountered. Mr. Crim draws from his own experiences to deliver stories and insights that are both highly professional and deeply relatable. His down-to-earth demeanor creates an immediate connection with the audience, making his message feel authentic and real. He is truly an exceptional role model for anyone who has the opportunity to hear him speak.

Nicci Cisarik, Student Recruitment & Outreach Specialist, Oakton Community College

I wanted to reach out and thank you for your presentation at the EPA’s Black History Celebration. It was an outstanding way to close out this year’s events.”

Tim Richards, Environmental Protection Agency.

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Talks & Presentations

How Black History Can Save Your Life: Transforming Workplace Culture Through Truth, Empathy and Accountability

This signature keynote draws from Ernest Crim III’s acclaimed book, How Black History Can Save

With

Ernest Crim III

Emmy-nominated griot, Educator, and Cultural Consultant

DEIB: Beyond the Trend and Toward Transformation

Since 2020, DEIB has become a popular workplace focus, but many employees still lack clarity on what

With

Ernest Crim III

Emmy-nominated griot, Educator, and Cultural Consultant

Anxiety Disorders in the Workplace and How We Can Show More Empathy

Anxiety shows up differently across racial, gender, social and cultural identities. In this DEI-info

With

Ernest Crim III

Emmy-nominated griot, Educator, and Cultural Consultant