Honoring 35 Years of Healing and Advocacy at DIVAS Simply Singing

Our hearts are filled with gratitude. Women for the Culture attended The DIVA Foundation's 35th Anniversary of DIVAS Simply Singing! Raising Health Awareness, this annual celebration is a powerful one, honoring decades of deep, intentional work around HIV and AIDS prevention, advocacy, and healing.

I had the honor of being on the red carpet for this milestone celebration and witnessing living legend Sheryl Lee Ralph reflect on the very beginnings of the foundation.

In our exclusive interview, she shared that when she first started The DIVA Foundation, people literally laughed in her face. They told her this kind of work would make people dislike her because “it wasn’t necessary.” And yet, 35 years later, here she stands; having helped save countless lives and shift the narrative around health, awareness, and compassion.

Her longtime friend Loretta Devine was also there in full support, radiating love and pride. Loretta shared a heartfelt message about believing in yourself, especially in an industry that can make you question everything. She reminded us that purpose and persistence will always speak louder than doubt.

It was more than an anniversary. It was a reminder of what happens when a Black woman refuses to back down from her calling. Take notes.