CHICAGO, IL – November 7, 2025 – Chicago’s own award winning journalist Anna DeShawn is launching a new series titled, “Shine a Light on It: Black Women, HIV & Its Impact,” a powerful mixed-media exhibit scheduled to open on World AIDS Day, December 1, 2025, at the Beverly Arts Center in Chicago.
This project was created out of urgency, truth, and love, directly addressing the fact that Black women remain disproportionately affected by HIV, accounting for over 50% of new diagnoses among women in the U.S. The exhibit’s mission is to reclaim narratives, disrupt stigma, and center the humanity of Black women living with HIV through candid photography and intimate audio/video storytelling.
“We are living in a time when public health messaging has been defunded, misinformation spreads quickly, and stigma continues to cause harm,” says Anna DeShawn, CEO of E3 Radio and Host of the Queer News Podcast. “This exhibit is calling for Black women to not be left out of the conversation. Personal stories, told with care, are the ultimate mobilization tool.”
Participants in the Project
Carla Davis, is a Senior Reentry Case Manager with Aids Foundation of Chicago. I began my career in this field as a Peer Navigator, where I worked for four years before becoming a Case Manager, a role I’ve now held for three years. I was born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, and I currently live on the South Side with my husband, whom I love very much.
I am passionate about my work and love helping my clients access resources, rebuild their lives, and feel supported during their reentry journey. Outside of work, I enjoy watching real-life true drama, going to church, and fellowshipping with my brothers and sisters in Christ. My faith, compassion, and commitment to community keep me grounded and motivated to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Chatrivia Kennedy, known in her literary world as Unique Kennedy, is a dynamic advocate and author hailing from Chicago, Illinois. With a powerful voice in HIV awareness and advocacy, Chatrivia has made significant strides in using her platform to educate and inspire.
Since 2019, Chatrivia has self-published over 30 books across various genres, including urban street lit, children’s literature, poetry, Christian fiction, and memoirs. Her work transcends mere storytelling; it empowers and amplifies the voices of marginalized communities, including those who are incarcerated or reintegrating into society.
In her multifaceted roles, Chatrivia is the CEO of Unique Presents LLC Publishing Company and the Founder of Unique Purpose Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to meaningful change. She is also a Certified HIV Advocate, skilled in HIV Testing and Counseling, and serves as a Women’s Bible Study Teacher with Loving U 4 Life Ministers. Additionally, Chatrivia works as a Certified Life and Writing Coach. Her commitment extends to hosting annual HIV awareness events and leveraging her social media presence to uplift and inspire.
“Chatrivia is a renowned advocate and author whose impactful story has been highlighted in the Chicago Tribune. She has garnered recognition in the prestigious Howard University STIGMA contest and Art of Me Magazine. Her collaboration book, _Dating with HIV_, achieved #1 Best Seller status on Amazon in the HIV/AIDS category. Additionally, Chatrivia was a nominee for the class of 2025 Leading Women’s Society 2020 award from Sister Love Inc. in Atlanta, further solidifying her dedication to empowering others and making a difference in the world of HIV/AIDS advocacy.
As a multifaceted advocate and entrepreneur, Chatrivia Kennedy is devoted to advancing HIV awareness, enriching literature, and making a tangible difference in the lives she touches through her words and actions.
Latascha Good is an advocate for women affected with HIV. She has been a member of The AIDS Foundation of Chicago Housing Cab since 2018. She advises the staff on policies and procedures for improvement of housing services for clients in the programs
.She has also been a member of BW-SELF (Black women supporting empowering lifestyle factors) through Universal Family Connection since 2018. As a member of this group, we engage women of color the urban areas who expressed concerns and apprehension with attending regular doctor appointments. We try to come up with solutions that can help break the barrier that keeps our minority women from taking care of their health.
A fun fact to know about me is I love music, and I love to dance. I am a Chicago house head since the 80’s and now I am a new found Boots on the ground fan.
Host & Executive Producer
Anna DeShawn, pronouns anything respectful, is your favorite queer radio personality. Host of the Ambie award-winning podcast, Queer News, she is a social entrepreneur, storyteller and community organizer known for her signature greeting of “Family”.
Media has always been her passion and in 2009 she turned that passion into a reality when she founded E3 Radio. In 2021, she expanded her media reach when she founded her podcast company, The Qube. In 2023, Anna was inducted into the Chicago LGBTQ Hall of Fame because of her unwavering commitment to the LGBTQ community. Anna DeShawn is determined to ride media into its next era by utilizing digital media streams to tell the stories and play the music that deserves to be heard.
What: “Shine a Light On It: Black Women, HIV & Its Impact” Exhibit Launch
When: December 1, 2025 (World AIDS Day) | Time: 6:00-8:00pm CT
Where: Beverly Arts Center, Chicago, IL | 2407 W 111th St, Chicago, IL 60655
Learn more about the participants here
About E3 Radio
E3 Radio is an online radio station dedicated to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices through music, news, and culture. We provide a platform for underestimated artists while celebrating queer identity and advocating for social justice.
About Queer News Podcast
Queer News is an Ambie award-winning weekly news podcast where race & sexuality meet politics, culture and entertainment. Hosted by Anna DeShawn, a new pod drops every Monday by 9am CT.