Ep. 8 | Donna Wilson: From Personal Trauma to Voting and HIV Advocacy

"HIV was the best thing that ever happened to me... because I'm the advocate who I am now."

Episode 8

In this episode, I talk to Donna Wilson, DeSoto Democratic precinct chair, election judge, and HIV activist.

Donna's journey from childhood trauma to fierce advocate reveals how a single diagnosis -- HIV -- can transform passion into action. Her unwavering commitment to voting rights, community outreach, and reproductive justice is a testament to how personal struggles fuel systemic impact.

I met Donna when I was working at the Dallas County Democratic Party in 2024. She invited me to a meeting at The Afiya Center, which at the time was a reproductive justice organization, and I assisted in showing their street team how to target voters. I still have fond memories of that Monday afternoon because it was the first time I helped a nonprofit understand data.

Here is a preview clip of Donna discussing how she dealt with a family member who told her that she got what she deserved with her HIV diagnosis:

Powerful and moving episode, indeed.

Also, being a precinct chair is not an easy job but it’s incredibly rewarding. If you live in Dallas County and are interested in the work, click here to learn more.

Thank you, Donna!

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