In this episode, Tawan Harris shares her journey from growing up in St. Louis to her experiences in the military, shedding light on the challenges faced by Black communities in Appalachia. Her personal encounters with poverty and crime underscore the importance of resilience and community support in overcoming adversity. Tawan's advocacy for systemic change, focusing on education, mental health resources, job opportunities, and equitable policies, makes this episode essential listening for community leaders and advocates in black Appalachian communities. Her inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of belief and determination, offering valuable insights into restoring hope and addressing systemic issues.

Meet Tawan Harris

Tawan Harris, a retired military professional residing in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, brings a wealth of personal experience to the discussion. Growing up in St. Louis, Tawan overcame the challenges of poverty and crime to achieve academic success, earning master's degrees in social work and environmental science. Tawan's family background, marked by her mother's successful journey to sobriety and her father's transition from incarceration to community service, underscores her commitment to addressing systemic issues in underserved communities. Her insights into the impact of family dynamics on personal growth and the pivotal role of education in breaking poverty cycles offer invaluable perspectives for community leaders and advocates seeking to bring about positive change in black Appalachian communities.

The mission of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) is to build a multi-state campaign that amplifies black voices, dismantles the colonized narrative of Appalachia, and uses story-based strategies and solutions that center the voices and lived experiences of Black Appalachians.

For more stories and information about The Black Appalachian Coalition please visit www.blackappalachiancoalition.org.