Holmes lives in Little Haiti, Miami, where rent has been raising due to rising sea levels.[1][2] She calls this climate gentrification, in which the poor are pushed out by the rich for climate reasons.[2]
Holmes runs business and property consulting practice OUR Homes and campaigns for housing rights for marginalized communities.[1][4] She also helps local housing agencies on issues related to African-American and inner-city women.[1] Holmes's work and other activism frequently bring her into conflict with the Miami government and leadership, and has reportedly included physical altercations.[5][6]
In 2016, Holmes was honored by the Miami Commission for risking her life to save a teenager injured by a bullet.[5]
In 2020, a video of Holmes hugging a police officer during the George Floyd protests went viral.[7]
Holmes is a fellow of Cleo Institute's Empowering Resilient Women program.[8]
In 2023, she was named on the BBC's 100 Women list as one of the world's inspiring and influential women.[1]