In response to the absence of multicultural leadership in sexual and reproductive health and rights, two female African American physicians/advocates, Drs. Denese Shervington and Billie Jean Pace, founded the Women of Color Reproductive Health Forum (WOCRHF) in 1990. The mission of the WOCRHF was to increase access for women of color to comprehensive and quality reproductive health services. In 1993, the WOCRHF broadened its mission and incorporated as a not-for-profit 501[c]3 organization, the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (IWES). The organization is based in New Orleans, Louisiana.

IWES is a national organization that is closely connected with the health and wellness of the local community in which we live and work. Our community-based projects in Louisiana guide our national and international initiatives, ensuring that our efforts are authentic to the experiences of the women, youth, and communities that we represent and serve.

IWES has been a pioneer in developing innovative information, education, and communication projects and training opportunities to promote sexual and reproductive health awareness and activism for and by women and youth of color. IWES has earned a reputation as a “think-tank” organization that cultivates community-driven approaches through mentorship, leadership, and collaboration. Its programs work to deepen the international discourse regarding sexual health to encompass sexuality, disease and pregnancy prevention, gender roles, prejudice and stigma, and socio-cultural, traditional, and political influences. IWES partners with clinicians, women’s advocates, youth groups, public health organizations, governmental agencies, and community coalitions to promote and ensure the fundamental sexual and reproductive health rights of women and youth. IWES creates opportunities for dialogue and consensus building, information sharing and skills exchange, and multi-level advocacy and organizing locally, nationally, and internationally.

IWES is recognized as the premier public health organization in sexual health communication, education, and advocacy for women and youth of color locally in New Orleans and has emerged as an indispensable voice for young women and communities of color across the United States.