About Sisters in Purple
Our History
Sisters In Purple was co-founded by three distinguished community activists and leaders in the field of domestic violence advocacy: Angelina Rosado, CEO and Founder of Returning Hope, Inc.; Shamara Kelly, of Voices of Women and CEO and Founder of Black Families United in Love; and Erika Lucille Ewing, CEO and Founder of Got To Stop, LLC.
Established in 2021, Sisters In Purple was born from a shared commitment to raise awareness and provide vital services and resources to victims, survivors, and families impacted by domestic violence and injustice. Before formally uniting, the founders collaborated frequently—supporting one another’s events, sharing resources, and working collectively to strengthen community response and survivor support.
The decision to join forces was catalyzed by the tragic death of Shaunice Young, a young Harlem mother-to-be and survivor of domestic violence who was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend after returning home from her baby shower. Her loss deeply affected us all. Despite doing everything we tell survivors to do to stay safe, Shaunice was still unprotected by the systems meant to safeguard her.
Her story ignited our collective determination to take action. Sisters In Purple emerged as a movement for healing, advocacy, and justice—harnessing our shared expertise to honor Shaunice’s memory and to ensure that no one else endures the same fate.
Waking Up The World
Waking Up The World
In October 2021, we took to the streets and organized our first march in honor of Shaunice Young to wake up the Harlem community. We gained the attention and support of Harlem-born and raised 2021 candidate for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Although he was not elected into office yet, he stood by us. We marched from 125th Street past Shaunice Young's apartment to St. Nicholas Park. As we chanted in the streets, we could hear cars honking and people yelling from their windows, cheering us on in solidarity.
Our Mission
Our Mission
At Sisters In Purple, our mission is to empower survivors of trauma through healing, advocacy, and community. We create safe and courageous spaces for individuals impacted by domestic violence, teen dating violence, gender-based violence, and gun violence. Beyond direct support, Sisters In Purple advocates for systemic change—raising awareness, advancing legislation, and amplifying survivor voices to build a safer, more compassionate community for all.
Our Services
We offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of survivors in New York City. From counseling and support groups to community outreach and education, Sisters In Purple is dedicated to providing essential resources that promote healing and resilience.
Thanksgiving Celebration 2026
Sisters In Purple, Inc. is celebrating our
4th Annual Thanksgiving Celebration,
and we need YOUR help to make it special!
This Thanksgiving, we're coming together to serve more than a meal. We're sharing kindness, compassion, and community care.
💜 Every dollar makes a difference.
Every gift is an act of love.
Whether you give $5, $25, $50, or more,
YOU can help us reach our goal!
🎯 OUR GOAL: $5,000 BY NOVEMBER 1ST!
Your generosity will help provide delicious Thanksgiving meals and essential community care items to those we serve.