Irma Thomas

One of the privileges of being a New Orleanian is that we got to grow up with the Soul Queen of New Orleans. Irma Thomas is a legend in this city and beyond. She joins us today for a poignant conversation about motherhood. By the time Irma had released her first album at 19 years-old she had been married twice and had given birth to three children. But her knowledge of reproductive health was basically non-existent. Now she fights to educate other black girls and women about their bodies and their rights.

Joining Irma is Dr. Denese Shervington. She is President and CEO of the Institute for Women and Ethnic Studies.  At IWES, Dr. Shervington directs the Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Program. 

About Our Hosts:

Nia Weeks (she, her, hers)
Lawyer, Humanitarian, Founder
Citizen She
A Warrior Of A Woman: Nia Weeks – Howard University News Service
Hairstyle discrimination now banned in New Orleans workplaces – The Times Picayune / New Orleans Advocate

Denese Shervington, MD (she / her/ hers)
President and Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies
Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (IWES)
In That Number – Denese Shervington

About Our Guest:

Irma Thomas

Irma Thomas Soul Queen of New Orleans at 80 / The Times Picayune

Timestamps:

3:16: Irma describes her early experiences as a young mother

6:22: Dr. Shervington discusses her early life and career

9:30: How to discuss sexual health with young people

15:19: Understanding why these conversations can be so difficult and awkward  

18:13: How older cultures discussed these issues with younger people

22:07: Confronting the epidemic of child sexual abuse  

25:27: Why it’s difficult for busy parents to be aware of a struggling child  

29:18: The critical importance of supporting young mothers  

31:07:  The single best way to connect with your kids