Q&A: Racial Disparities in Women's Cancer

Why is Racial Equity and Social Justice important to you?

Narda J. Fields:  As a Black woman living in America in particular racial equity and social justice is a priority for me. No person regardless of their racial makeup or social structure should be treated any differently than anyone else.  We all deserve respect no matter how we look or where we come from. I have witnessed first-hand the atrocities that Black and Brown people face simply because of our natural hue. From an intellectual perspective it isn't even intelligent.  It doesn't make sense. We are all human and should be treated as such no matter what side of the tracks we come from.

Shogunny McBeth-Alexander, NP:  As a black woman and mother of two black boys, both of these things have played a significant role in my community. We tell our children that they are equal to other races, while having to also explain to them why that is not so. For example, I tell my boys that they are just as smart as their peers and this is a true statement. I then have to circle around and remind them that because of the color of their skin they have to work twice as hard to accomplish the same things. As a mother of two black boys that will some day become men, I support their father in conversations regarding black men and law enforcement. It breaks my heart to have to explain to them that because of their beautiful, melanin skin, society will view them differently. It is such a harsh reality.

Brittany Young, B.S., L.E:  Racial equity and social justice are important to me because I believe healing—true healing—can’t happen in systems that weren’t created with us in mind. As a Black woman, educator, and wellness professional, I’ve seen how injustice creeps into our health, education, financial systems, and even our self-worth. Racial equity is about removing the barriers that were built to keep us stuck. Social justice is about reimagining a world where we all have access—not just to survive, but to thrive, to heal, and to live in full expression. Equity isn’t a buzzword; it’s about creating environments where our people are heard, supported, and valued. It’s about ensuring we have access to healing, opportunity, and dignity across every sector.

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What's keeping you awake at night?

Shannon Stones, M.EdL:  What keeps me up at night is how racism continues to evolve. While we still haven’t received justice for the legacy of slavery, new systems—like biased media and technology—continue to oppress the Black community. We’re criminalized in the media, targeted by algorithms, and denied generational wealth. The fight for justice isn’t over—it’s just shifted forms. That’s what weighs on me.

Shogunny McBeth-Alexander, NP:  The thought of my grandchildren having to grow up in a society that still turns a blind eye to the inequities and injustices that marginalized groups endure daily.

Brittany Young, B.S., L.E:  What keeps me up at night is the reality that in this country, even something as fundamental as health and well-being is influenced by race—and that is heartbreaking. It’s unacceptable that basic human needs like access to mental health support, nutritious food, dental care, and quality healthcare are still not accessible to all. The grip of big pharma, the glorification of being overworked and underpaid while the cost of living skyrockets—it’s exhausting and unjust. What’s worse is that many people don’t understand the historical context behind these inequities. Certain communities have been placed in cycles that were never designed for them to escape. The system was never built for us, and the weight of that truth is heavy. There’s so much to unpack, and we must stay committed to unlearning and rebuilding systems rooted in justice and equity.

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What are you working on now that you’re most excited about?

Shannon Stones, M.EdL:  I am most excited about my work as the founder of Philabag, a nonprofit that educates our community about environmental services and encourages everyone to step away from technology and reconnect with nature. It’s a way to promote equity, wellness, and community healing—especially in underserved areas. I also serve as a board member of the Byrd Cancer Foundation, which connects cancer patients with vital resources during treatment. Both roles allow me to help eliminate disparities by increasing access to education, health support, and opportunities for healing across different communities.

Narda J. Fields:  I am currently working on a community event #brothersandsisterskeeper Day.  The mission is to give back to our communities and remind them that they are not left behind! They are seen, have value, and are important.  Many resources will be available to remind our brothers and sisters that they are not forgotten and to fight for what rightfully belongs to them. The event will include mental health resources,  health and wellness resources, financial literacy resources, as well as nutritional food. 

Nia Imani Bailey, DPA, M.A.Ed., RT(T):  Cancer education! While it is true that ANYONE can be diagnosed with cancer, it is also true that those who are black and brown are dying of cancer faster than their counterparts. I seek to eliminate that gap so that all people can live a life free of cancer’s sting.