We had the good fortune of connecting with Coffy Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Coffy, what makes you happy? Why?
Over the years I’ve come to realize and appreciate that my family makes me most happy. I am at my best when surrounded by the love and support of those who know me the most intimately.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a creative; a butterfly who connected with a great tribe of artist here in Little Rock, Arkansas in the early 2000s. it was through my connection with the art scene here, that I was able to fine tune my craft of writing as a spoken word poet. I began to transform thoughts and ideas that I’ve had since I was a little girl, into powerful declarations of self-empowerment. My poetry led to me crafting a stage play titled, FREEDOM, a play in all verse, that I wrote and directed and showcased regionally. I gained a lot of recognition and even became the first African American to produce a play at the Historical Malco theater (a feat that was mentioned in USA Today). But the most profound thing was that that experience gave me the courage to go after my dreams and create a life that did not meet the status quo. I credit this experience with getting me to where I am today professionally. It taught me about manifestation of goals, about diligence and resiliency. It also validated me as a writer. I always say my writing “gave me a seat at the table.” It helped me see that I had the power within me to lead and became the driving force in the community work that I began doing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend ever was coming to visit me, I’d take her to all the places that contribute to me finding myself here in Little Rock, Arkansas. I’d take her by Central High School, a school whose legacy is cemented in history books but also fastened to my family’s roots by way of my mother and father, who graduated in 1977 and my husband and eventually my son walked the same stage. I’d take her to Martin Luther King Street, that used to be High Street where my mama lived with her grandmother, although the house is no longer there, but the memory still blows in the warm air. I’d go by Alis Street where my daddy’s blood, sweat and tears fertilized the soil outside his property. We can still walk the hardwood floors of the home he’s been building for 40 years. I’d bring her to my office so she can see my “work” live and in living color. We’d climb pinnacle mountain and feel the sweet joy of success when we reached the pinnacle. We’d sit there and reminisce on how as young women we were once afraid of heights and then marvel at how much we’ve both achieved. I’d take her by the House of Mental Soulfood Vegan spot and introduce her to my friend and owner and we’d discuss how love is an inside job and begins with what we consume. We’d go to Hot Springs and carry water jugs to fill up with hot spring water straight from the earth and shop with the local vendors. It would be an amazing time to share my world with one of my dearest friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My story is colored in with some of the most amazing people, but I can narrow it down to my husband and my two sons as the people I most recognize in my success. They not only reap the benefits of hard work in smiles and accolades but have endured this journey of mine during the difficult days, late nights, tears and disappointments. They have shown me the true meaning of love and connection. They have given my life meaning and purpose beyond titles and achievements. They’ve taught me the power of God and his divine love. For that I am eternally grateful.

Website: https://placeforresources.com/march

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marchforblackwomenandgirls/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coffydavis/

Image Credits
These are my personal photos.

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