Tanesha Ash-Shakoor, J.D.-From Surviving to Thriving

By Yanice Jackson-Long

Courtesy Photo-Tanesha Ash-Shakoor-Founder/CEO Voices of Color

After talking with Mrs. Tanesha Ash-Shakoor, J.D., it will forever be an experience I cherishThe passion and knowledge that comes across when she tells her story, helps her to connect with the masses. She is one of the few who has stood toe to toe with the beast of domestic violence. Not only has she survived domestic violence, but she has thrived. Tanesha uses her experience to serve as an advocate for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Tanesha Ash-Shakoor, J.D., is from Hollister, North Carolina. She moved to Lansing, Michigan after an abusive relationship nearly cost her life. Tanesha graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law school in 2015.

An employer gave Tanesha the nickname "Tenacious Tanesha" and other employers agreed. You ask why? She says she clings to furthering her education and firmly holds on to the vision for her life. “Aspirations of being an attorney required discipline. The issue was I had no idea what type of law I wanted to practice. How did I figure it out? I didn't figure it out! Life happened and I gained a passion to advocate for those affected by domestic violence. Over the last 10+ years, I have had the opportunity to work and volunteer in various capacities to do just that. My personal and professional experience aided me in becoming the Founder and CEO of my non-profit "Voices of Color". I have undoubtedly been able to serve my community without reservation. The time spent providing reliable resources to victims and survivors is so rewarding. I love being the voice for the "voiceless" and doing so by collaborating with other organizations who believe in serving.”

Tanesha was able to channel what she learned from her past experiences with domestic abuse and help other survivors by sharing her story. She discovered that her passion was advocating and serving those who had experienced domestic violence. The mission of Voices of Color is to educate and prevent domestic violence for all races, ages, sexual orientation, religions, and genders, and actively work toward restoring self-empowerment for victims and survivors. She followed her dream of being a voice for the voiceless.

First Annual State of Michigan Domestic Violence Rally 2019

In 2019, Tanesha planned and held the First Annual State of Michigan Domestic Violence Rally. Going forward, Tanesha plans to hold these events to encourage survivors to raise their voices and bring awareness to the many forms of domestic violence including emotional, mental, legal and physical abuse. The Second Annual State of Michigan Domestic Violence Rally is planned for October 1st, 2020 from 4:30-6:00 PM at the Michigan State Capitol located at 100 N Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933.

In her free time, Tanesha’s family is her top priority. She is married to Rev. Dr. Aqeel Ash-Shakoor. They have three wonderful children and a fur baby: Jibril Ash-Shakoor (24), Jaylah Ash-Shakoor (20), Ji'Ri Ash-Shakoor (16) and a Yorkie named Dulché (3). To get in contact with Tanesha, or to find out more about the Voices of Color Organization please visit www.voicesofcolor.org