In 1989, when the AIDS epidemic was ravaging communities and women's voices were largely absent from the conversation, Dázon Dixon Diallo founded SisterLove—the first women's HIV and sexual and reproductive justice organization in the southeastern United States. More than 35 years later, her pioneering work continues to save lives and shape national policy.
SisterLove emerged from Diallo's recognition that women, particularly Black women in the South, faced unique challenges in the HIV/AIDS crisis that existing organizations weren't addressing. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a nationally recognized organization that combines direct services with advocacy and education.
Diallo's impact extends far beyond Atlanta. She serves as co-chair of the Act Now: End AIDS coalition and is a founding member of the SisterSong reproductive justice collective, which has shaped the national conversation around reproductive rights. Her expertise has been sought at the highest levels—she has served on the Office of AIDS Research Advisory Council for the National Institutes of Health and on the board of the National Women's Health Network.
A graduate of Spelman College with a Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Diallo brings both academic rigor and lived experience to her work. Spelman College honored her contributions with an honorary doctorate.
In 2019, Diallo was among 30 Atlantans featured on murals installed citywide ahead of Super Bowl LIII, a recognition of her status as a true Atlanta hero.
When asked about lessons learned, Diallo offers wisdom born from decades of community work: 'Not everyone is who they say they are, and almost everyone will show themselves. So keep your eyes open and believe what they show you, not what you hear and feel.'
The Fort Valley, Georgia native continues to lead SisterLove with the same passion that inspired its founding, ensuring that women's health and reproductive justice remain at the forefront of public health advocacy.