WAVE Newsletter February 2026

ISSUE 006| FEBRUARY 2026

RIDE THE RIDE THE WAVE WAVE

WAVE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER @WaveWomenInc

@WaveWomenInc

www.wavewomeninc.com

Javannah J.J. Davis Javannah Davis Founding President Founding President As we come into a new year, I want to pause and honor the fullness of everything 2025 held for WAVE Women Inc. and for me personally. This past year reminded us that joy and grief often walk side by side, shaping us, strengthening us, and calling us deeper into purpose.

There were moments of celebration and collective pride, most notably our 5 th Anniversary WAVE Gala; a powerful night of community, visibility, and love.

Seeing our supporters, partners, and chosen family gathered in one space affirmed why this work matters and how far we have come together. It was a reminder that WAVE is not just an organization; it is a movement rooted in resilience, creativity, and care.

At the same time, 2025 carried profound loss. We mourned the passing of my cousin, Danny Dusse, whose absence is deeply felt in my heart and within our family. Grief has a way of slowing us down and asking us to move with tenderness, reflection, and grace. Our community was also devastated by the loss of a legend in the fight for Black Trans liberation, Miss Major Griffin-Gracey. In that loss, I was reminded that our work must always center humanity, mental health, compassion, and the honoring of life in all its seasons.

I am intentional to walk mighty into 2026 with the strength found in community, the necessity of rest and remembrance, and the unwavering commitment to show up for one another. Thank you to all of you for walking alongside WAVE through every high and every low. Together, we continue.

W W

WELCOMING THE THE NEW NEW YEAR YEAR E.N.O.U.G.H. ? WELCOMING E.N.O.U.G.H. A? A E E T T PAGE 11 PAGE S S PAGE 6-8 PAGE 6-8 ’ ’ HH AA TT

WRITING BLACK WRITING BLACK HISTORY HISTORY RADICAL RADICAL LOVE LOVE GALA GALA PAGE 9-11 PAGE 9-11 PAGE 22 PAGE

THE COST THE COST OF OF I.C.E. I.C.E. PAGE 3-5 PAGE 3-5

AA DEDICATION DEDICATION TO TO DANNY DANNY PAGE 12-13 PAGE 12-13

THE FAMILY THE FAMILY GATHERING GATHERING PAGE 14 PAGE 14

WAVE AROUND WAVE AROUND TOWN TOWN PAGE 18 PAGE 18

MPJI 2026 MPJI 2026 CALENDAR CALENDAR PAGE 15 PAGE 15

HONORING OUR HONORING OUR TRANSCESTORS TRANSCESTORS PAGE 19-20 PAGE 19-20

IN THE IN THE KNOW KNOW PAGE 16-17 PAGE 16-17

FRIENDS OF FRIENDS OF WAVE WAVE PAGE 21 PAGE 21

1

Black History

Still being made Black History Month is not just about reflection; it is about reckoning. Black lives continue to be in danger. For Black LGBTQ+ people, especially Black Trans and gender expansive people, that danger is recurring, systemic, and deeply personal.

At this moment, our bodies are still being legislated, policed, erased, and mourned.

Anti-Black racism remains unchanged while anti-LGBTQ+ attacks intensify in schools, healthcare systems, and statehouses. The repetition is haunting. New laws, familiar violence, and the same grief from losing loved ones. History keeps echoing, reminding us that progress without protection is fragile.

Black LGBTQ+ history has always been rooted in resistance. We have been central to every movement for liberation, even when our names were left out. We build chosen families, create safety where none exists, and keep showing up for one another in the face of exhaustion and loss.

Black LGBTQ+ lives are not an afterthought in history. We are living history, still here, still fighting, still loving, and still demanding a future where Black lives are no longer repeatedly placed in harm’s way.

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THE COST OF I.C.E.

A NATIONAL IN CRISIS We are living in a time where cruelty has been normalized under the guise of “law and order,” put in place under this despicable Trump Administration. No other institutions embody this more clearly than Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.).

What has transpired under the watch of this agency is not merely a series of isolated incidents or bureaucratic failures. Murders.

Kidnappings. It is a systemic pattern of dehumanization that has become a profound detriment to our society as a whole.

I.C.E. was created under the pretense of public safety. That was a LIE! In practice, it has too often functioned as an engine of fear, trauma, and destabilization, particularly within Black, Brown, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ communities. Families are torn apart. Children are separated from caregivers. People seeking safety, stability, and dignity are instead met with detention, neglect, violence, and even death.

Reports have documented hundreds of allegations of sexual assault within I.C.E. and Border Patrol custody, alongside preventable deaths and widespread medical neglect. Detention facilities are routinely plagued by overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and delayed or denied medical care. These are not conditions that align with any humane, moral, or democratic value we claim to uphold.

When a society accepts cages instead of care, punishment instead of protection, and surveillance instead of support, we are not just harming immigrants. We are eroding our collective humanity.

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THE COST OF I.C.E.

A NATIONAL IN CRISIS The presence of I.C.E. raids in neighborhoods do not create safety. It creates terror. Parents become afraid to take their children to school. Survivors hesitate to seek medical care. Workers endure exploitation in silence, knowing that reporting abuse could mean deportation or detention. This climate of fear weakens communities, fractures trust, and undermines public health and public safety for everyone.

As a Black Woman of Trans experience and a community advocate, I see firsthand how state violence compounds vulnerability. Many of the people targeted by I.C.E. already exist at the intersections of racism, poverty, Transphobia, and xenophobia. For them, detention is not just incarceration. It is often a death sentence disguised as policy.

We must also confront the moral contradiction of funding systems that harm while neglecting investments that heal. Every dollar poured into detention centers, militarized enforcement, and surveillance is a dollar taken away from housing, healthcare, education, mental health services, and community-based support systems that actually make our society stronger.

This is not about borders alone. It is about values.

A society that allows people to die in custody, that separates children from their families, and that treats migration as a crime rather than a human reality is a society in crisis. We cannot claim justice while excusing cruelty. We cannot claim safety while manufacturing fear. And we cannot claim freedom while denying it to those deemed “other.”

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THE COST OF I.C.E.

A NATIONAL IN CRISIS The question is not whether this system is broken. The evidence is overwhelming.

The real question is whether we are willing to say, collectively and unequivocally, this is not who we are and this is not the future we accept.

Our liberation is bound together. When we allow injustice to thrive anywhere, it weakens justice everywhere.

And that is a cost we can no longer afford.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS LOCAL(ROCHESTER)RESOURCES: HTTPS://WWW.LASROC.ORG/IMMIGRATION HTTPS://WWW.NEWHOPEFREE.ORG/ILS HTTPS://WW2.FCSCHARITIES.ORG/SERVICES/IMMIGRATION/

NAT I O NA L R E S O U RC E S : HTTPS://IMMIGRANTJUSTICE.ORG/FOR-IMMIGRANTS/KNOW-YOURR I G H T S / I C E - E N C O U N T E R / ? U T M _ S O U R C E = C H AT G P T. C O M HTTPS://WWW.IMMIGRATIONADVOCATES.ORG/LEGALDIRECTORY/ HTTPS://WWW.ICEINMYAREA.ORG/

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I am

E.n.o.u.g.h.

There comes a defining moment in a woman’s life when survival is no longer enough. When resilience, though powerful, becomes exhausting. When we realize that constantly proving our worth to a world determined to question it is not empowerment, but endurance. For me, that moment arrived quietly yet decisively, anchored in one undeniable truth: I am enough.

At my big age, and as a Black woman of Trans experience, my life has been shaped by navigating systems that were never designed with my safety or affirmation in mind. It wasn’t until my transition late in life, but right on time, that I learned how to perform strength, how to minimize my needs, and how to make myself palatable in spaces where my existence was already considered a disruption. I had to unlearn to overextend, overexplain, and overdeliver just to be seen as worthy.

Recognizing that I am enough did not come easily. It emerged through years of advocacy, leadership, and community care, often at the expense of my own wellbeing. I poured into others while quietly questioning my own value. I uplifted voices while silencing parts of myself. It was through moments of exhaustion, grief, and reflection that I began to understand that self recognition is not selfish. It is necessary!

This understanding is the foundation of my pageant platform, E.N.O.U.G.H., a framework for self empowerment rooted in internal validation rather than external approval.

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I am

E.n.o.u.g.h.

E = Embracing self worth N = Naming my truth O = Owning my power U = Understanding my value G = Grounding myself in my purpose H = Honoring the Woman I am without apology.

This platform is both personal and communal. It reflects my journey and the collective experience of so many Black and Latinx Trans and gender nonconforming people who have been taught to look outward for acceptance while being denied affirmation within.

Through my work with youth and community members, I have witnessed how early messages of inadequacy take hold. Young people are conditioned to believe their worth is tied to conformity, visibility, or survival. E.N.O.U.G.H. challenges that narrative. It invites individuals to look inward, to recognize that their existence is valid without permission, and to understand that empowerment begins when we stop abandoning ourselves for the comfort of others.

This is why I am entering the Miss Black Trans International Pageant in April 2026; during the Black Trans Advocacy Conference. This decision is not about a crown or a title. It is about intentional visibility. It is about occupying space with purpose and showing what it looks like when a Black Trans Woman stands fully in her truth, not seeking approval, but offering affirmation. The pageant is a platform, and I am using it to amplify a message that too often goes unheard.

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I am

E.n.o.u.g.h.

Saying I am enough is not a declaration of arrival. It is a commitment to self honor. It does not deny growth or accountability. Instead, it affirms that my humanity is not conditional. It is a refusal to shrink, to silence myself, or to perform pain for legitimacy. It is choosing wholeness over harm and authenticity over fear.

As I step onto this global stage, I carry with me the stories of those who came before me and the hopes of those who are still learning to see themselves clearly. I stand as a reflection of what is possible when we choose ourselves without apology. I stand not despite my journey, but because of it.

I am E.N.O.U.G.H….and in claiming that truth, I invite others to do the same.

If you’d like to help me make this journey, monetary support can be made as following:

Cashapp: $NurseJasmeen PayPal: @NurseJavannah Venmo: @linje-enterprises-21

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WAVE WOMEN INC.

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Myy‌ ‌TT‌ rr‌ ii‌bb‌ uu‌ tt‌ee‌ ‌tt‌oo‌ ‌ M

S S S S U U E E D D ”S ” “ “ SIIP Y Y PL N N LII N N N N DAA D

I’m writing this as Danny’s cousin, from a place of deep grief, love, and concern for our community.

I regret that I missed so much of Danny’s life. We didn’t see each other often, but whenever we did, it was always love. Always laughter. Always family. Distance never changed that bond, and time never erased it.

Danny carried a light that reached people in ways I’m still learning about. Hearing the stories shared by friends, community, and chosen family has shown me just how much impact Danny had on the lives of others. That legacy matters. That love matters.

This loss cuts deep, not just because we lost someone we love, but because so many in our community carry heavy pain every day. Too many Black and Brown LGBTQ siblings feel restricted from being themselves out of fear. Fear of losing loved ones, fear of being shunned, fear of being misunderstood or unsafe. That fear takes a toll. When it becomes too much, too heavy, it can lead people to a place no human should have to endure alone.

The grief I feel for Danny is intertwined with a collective sorrow. For all the ones we’ve already lost, for those struggling now, and for the lives that could still be here if they had the support and care they deserved.

Mental health matters. Danny’s life mattered. Danny’s story mattered.

Danny’s life reminds me, and all of us, that love, community, and support can be lifesaving. Let’s keep showing up for each other. Let’s make space for truth, healing, and care. Let’s honor those we’ve lost by protecting those who are still here.

Family is forever. Love doesn’t disappear.

Rest in peace, cousin. You are loved. You are remembered…always.

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‌ a a l l ‌ t‌ t ‌ ‌ e e h h ‌ ‌ M M ‌ H H ‌ ‌ ‌ l l ‌ a a ‌ a a ‌ t t t t ‌ ‌ n n t t ‌ ‌ ee‌ rr‌ ss‌ ‌ e e M M EEVVEE

N N E E R R A A U U O O Y Y

RR AALLOO NEE N

If you or someone you know is struggling, overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless, or thinking about suicide, please reach out. You do not have to carry this pain in silence.

If you or someone you know is struggling, overwhelmed, lonely ,

hopeless, or thinking about suicide, please reach out. You do not

have to carry this pain in silence.

Reliable Support and Crisis Resources in the United States:

Reliable Support and Crisis Resources in the United States:

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors 24 hours a day 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors 24 hours a day

The Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386 or text TREVOR to 678678 for LGBTQ youth support The Trevor Project

Call 1-866-488-7386 or text TREVOR to 678678 for LGBTQ youth

support

Trans Lifeline Call 877-565-8860 for peer support Trans Lifeline

Call 877-565-8860 for peer support

Crisis Text Line Text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor Crisis Text Line

Text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor

These services are confidential and free. Please use them if you need support right now.

These services are confidential and free. Please use them if you

need support right now.

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A Sacred Gathering for Trans Liberation

the Sisters of Eternal Essence LLC Presents:

In a world that often demands our resilience but rarely offers us rest, the Sisters of Eternal Essence, partnering with the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, emerges with THE FAMILY GATHERING; a sanctuary. A transformative space born from love, led by purpose, and sustained by the sacred bond between Transgender/GNC people across the country. Rooted in the wisdom of our ancestors and the brilliance of our lived experiences, this collective exists to offer something our community has long been denied: peace, healing, and radical joy.

Our mission is clear and unwavering; to unite Trans/GNC individuals in a safe and affirming environment that celebrates harmony, joy, wisdom, and love. Unlike traditional gatherings centered on institutional hierarchy or professional gain, this convening will be grounded in community care, free from the constant pressure of survival. With all costs for travel, lodging, and meals covered, our intention is simple but revolutionary: to create a space where Trans and GNC people can gather to laugh, to heal, to share, and to just be!

At a time when Black and Brown Trans women and femmes continue to bear the brunt of systemic injustice, the Sisters of Eternal Essence offers more than an event, we strive to offer liberation.

Through peer-led skill sharing, shared meals, and moments of rest, we are building a future rooted not in scarcity or fear, but in abundance, affirmation, and community-led wisdom. This is not just a gathering. This is a reclamation. We look forward to welcoming you to, “The Family Gathering” August 2026.

INTERESTED IN SPONSORSHIPS

INTERESTED IN ATTENDING

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THE INAUGURAL THE INAUGURAL MARSHA P. MARSHA P. JOHNSON JOHNSON INSTITUTE INSTITUTE 2026 CALENDAR 2026 CALENDAR

RESILIENCE RESILIENCE THRU THRU DESTRUCTION DESTRUCTION The Marsha P. Johnson Institute 2026 Calendar is a bold, unapologetic declaration of trans power, beauty, and survival. Set against a backdrop of resistance and rebirth, each month honors the brilliance of trans women who continue to stand tall, even when the world tries to burn us down.

This is not just a calendar. It is art. Legacy.

Protest. Celebration.

This calendar is a year lived in relationship with BLACK trans leadership. Featuring Dominique Jackson, Isis King, Javannah Davis, Dominique Morgan, Hope Giselle, Diamond Stylz, Jasmine Tasaki, and other pioneering changemakers, Resilience Thru Destruction stands as a visual testament to what it means to remain grounded and unshaken as the world transforms around us.

www.Marshap.org

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In the know!

BULLETIN

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A LGBTQIA HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IN CENTRAL & WESTERN NY?

DISCLAIMER: THERE IS STILL A STRUGGLE WITHIN OUR HEALTHCARE SYSTEM WHEN IT COMES TO CULTURALLY COMPETENT CARE FOR BLACK AND BROWN TRANS/GNC INDIVIDUALS. ALWAYS SPEAK UP REGARDING WHAT YOUR HEALTHCARE SHOULD LOOK LIKE FOR YOU.

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In the know!

BULLETIN

COMING SOON: TRAILBLAZERS We’re excited to announce Trailblazers in collaboration with WAVE Woman Inc. a new program designed by and for our trans and non-binary community Trailblazers will focus on: Leadership development Mentorship opportunities Job readiness & professional development workshops Connections to affirming resources — including employers This program is about building power, confidence, and pathways forward— together.

Have questions or want to learn more?

Reach out to lgbthealth@trilliumhealth.org Stay tuned—Trailblazers is coming soon!

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Wave AROUND TOWN

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‌ r r ‌ u u ‌ T T ‌ O O ‌ r r ‌ ‌ A A ‌ ‌ g g ‌ n n ‌ n n ‌ i i ‌ cc‌ ee‌ ss‌ tt‌oo‌ rr‌ ‌ r r ‌ o o ‌ n n ‌ o o HH

Y

Y

RIIF GR G FF R R FIIN O O NJ J -G A A GR M M RA S S AC S C IIS M M

The world feels quieter when we lose a legend. Not because the fight has ended, but because the room no longer hums with the presence of someone who made courage feel possible simply by existing. Some people do not just enter spaces. They shift them. They recalibrate what we believe we are allowed to demand, to survive, and to become.

I had the honor of caring for her. Not as a spectator, not as someone reading history after it was written, but as her nurse, present in moments that mattered. Moments that were not polished for public memory or wrapped in ceremony. Moments rooted in humanity. In trust.

In vulnerability. The kind of time that is sacred because it is quiet, honest, and irreplaceable.

Being in that role taught me something profound. Healing is not just clinical. It is ancestral. It is political. It is deeply personal. Care is not only about tending to the body, but about witnessing a life that has carried generations forward through sheer refusal to disappear. I did not just provide care. I received instruction.

Mother Major didn’t just open doors. She showed me how to kick the fucking thing in when the system said no, look it dead in the eye, and say, “I said YES!”. She taught me that permission is not something we wait for. It’s something we take, especially when our lives depend on it.

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‌ r r ‌ u u ‌ T T ‌ O O ‌ r r ‌ ‌ A A ‌ ‌ g g ‌ n n ‌ n n ‌ i i ‌ cc‌ ee‌ ss‌ tt‌oo‌ rr‌ ‌ r r ‌ o o ‌ n n ‌ o o HH

Y

Y

RIIF GR G FF R R FIIN O O NJ J -G A A GR M M RA S S AC S C IIS M M

I’m grateful to have learned that survival is not an individual achievement but a collective act, and that liberation requires audacity. She modeled how to fight systems with love in one hand and fire in the other, without apologizing for either. She showed me that softness and strength are not opposites. They are partners.

Walking beside her, even briefly, is something I will carry for the rest of my life.

Legends do not leave us empty when they transition. They leave us equipped. They leave us sharpened. They leave us with instructions written into our bones.

Her rest is deserved. The work, however, continues. And every time I am told no by a system built to exclude, I will hear her voice in my spirit reminding me that doors were never meant to contain us. I will kick them in, carrying her legacy forward, every single time, telling everyone that “I am STILL fucking her!”

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Friends

n Inc me

AVE W W o of

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