Sharon DeCuir, PWN leader and reproductive justice champion for all women living with HIV in Louisiana, has joined the ancestors

It is with profound sadness that we remember and honor our esteemed colleague and friend, Sharon DeCuir. Sharon was a fierce advocate for women, girls, people living with HIV, and the communities of Louisiana. She was a long-time leader with Positive Women’s Network-USA, serving as a member of our steering committee long before we had a Board of Directors, and then on the Board for many years as vice chair and treasurer. Sharon played a critical role in the creation of PWN’s strategic plan. “Sharon never was the first word; she would let everyone else speak their mind, lifting up what was important to them, and would then propose a compromise or solution that would meet most everyone’s needs. She wasn’t the first word but was often the last word we needed,” remembers Barb Cardell, PWN’s programs director.

Sharon was the senior and founding member of the PWN Louisiana Chapter, always showing up and supporting leaders throughout the South. Her resilience and unwavering determination meant that no challenge or adversity ever stopped her from making a lasting impact wherever she went, and her deep commitment to social justice was evident in every initiative she undertook. “Her relentless drive for change and her compassionate spirit continue to inspire us all,” said Evany Turk, PWN’s board chair. “As we carry forward the important work Sharon helped shape, we will honor her legacy by weaving her spirit into everything we do,” said Tana Pradia, PWN’s board vice chair.


Sharon combatted stigma and bravely shared her story with BET.com in 2011. 

PWN Louisiana chapter members remember her impact and wise words:

Meta Smith-Davis: “Sharon once said to me, ‘If you can’t look at yourself in the mirror and not see HIV, but who you are or want to be, you will always be hiding, not just from others but from yourself.’ These words changed me.”

Millicent Foster: “My favorite Sharon quote is, ‘Do your own research, because in this game people will tell you anything, and most of the time it’s wrong.’”

Sonya Milliman: “We’ve had good times and we have definitely had our differences, but it’s those differences and you pushing me to see things from a Black Queen’s perspective, that I will honestly miss the most! Thank you for being the fierce advocate that you were and for enduring medically all that you did so that those of us newly diagnosed can take safer medicines. You are a Shero for certain and I will be forever grateful for having met you!” 

Marnina Miller, co-executive director of PWN, shared, “She was more than just a board member and leader; she was a friend, a wise woman, and a true force of nature. We will miss her fierce spirit, her wise counsel, and her unwavering commitment to our shared vision.”

“Our hearts go out to her family, the PWN Louisiana chapter, and everyone who knew and loved her,” said Keiva Lei Cadena, co-executive director of PWN.