Dr. Tawana Angela Davis is a transformative force in the fight for racial justice and Black liberation. She introduces herself by honoring her elders and those who have come before her. She is the daughter of Rose Lee Davis and the granddaughter of Alice Mack. She is also the daughter of Edward E. Davis Junior. All three have transitioned from this life, and Dr. Tawana also honors her baby sister, Tina Rose Davis, who is no longer with us. She speaks their names in our conversation to respect and acknowledge her family, her community.  

Born and raised in Harlem, New York, in the Wagner projects, Dr. Tawana proudly and loudly embraces her roots. She often asks, “What good can come out of the projects?” and she is the answer to that question. The Wagner projects are where she learned about community and unconditional love. Despite the tough times, she and her community stood together. Her resilience, stance in life, care for others unconditionally, activism, and passion stem from her community and her parents. This background led her to co-found Soul 2 Soul Sisters in 2015. 

Soul 2 Soul Sisters is a racial justice, love-based revolution focused on Black liberation and liberation for all. Dr. Tawana’s work and dedication are driven by these principles. She has created and fostered an environment where conversations about racial justice, healing, and systemic change are not just encouraged but are central to the mission. Her organization is a testament to her commitment to love, justice, and the holistic well-being of the Black community. 

In November of 2016, just as Soul 2 Soul Sisters was about to hit the one-year mark, Dr. Tawana was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. It was a shocking and overwhelming moment, especially since she had a mammogram in May of 2016 that showed everything was fine. The news was a stark reminder of how swiftly life can change. Now, eight years later, she is profoundly grateful to be actively educating others in her community about health and wellness. Surviving metastatic breast cancer is no small feat, and each day she is reminded of her resilience and the strength it takes to navigate such a daunting diagnosis. She credits her family and her community for their unconditional love and support.  

Dr. Tawana talks about womanism, a term coined by Alice Walker in her book “In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens”. Womanism provides a platform to delve into our own history, creative prowess, divinity, and humanity.  

This foundation is essential for building and understanding diverse ideas, ideologies, and approaches to combating racism, fostering community, and honoring all who have walked the same path.  

In a society where Black women face stark disparities—41% of Black women die at a higher rate than white women from breast cancer, a statistic unchanged for decades—womanism becomes a crucial lens through which we can navigate and challenge these inequities. By embracing womanism, she believes it is the best way to pave the way for more inclusive and effective systems of support and resistance.  

Dr. Tawana says ” I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by many in our community. When I moved to Denver, I met numerous beloveds from the LGBTQIA+ community, including Black women, Black femmes, and gender nonconforming individuals. These beloveds often feel uncomfortable going to the doctor due to automatic judgment. For example, someone transitioning and taking hormones still needs breast exams, yet they face assumptions and judgments based on their gender identity. This bias can deter them from seeking necessary medical care, highlighting the urgent need for more inclusive and compassionate healthcare environments”. This underscores the significance of collaborating with organizations like the BEA, which offers Bexa Breast Exams at no cost.  

In addition to her work with Soul 2 Soul Sisters, Dr. Tawana is a respected voice in the community. Her leadership is characterized by a deep empathy and a tireless commitment to making the world a more just and loving place for all. 

Her journey is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering dedication to justice. Dr. Tawana Angela Davis continues to be a beacon of hope and a powerful advocate for change, always rooted in the love and strength of her community.