Taystee

Taystee is a fictional character appearing in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black. She is portrayed by Danielle Brooks. Taystee, whose birth name is Tasha Jefferson, is introduced as a charismatic and intelligent inmate at Litchfield Penitentiary. She is known for her sharp wit, her love of literature, and her role as a de facto leader among the younger inmates.

Throughout the series, Taystee's storyline often revolves around her friendships, particularly with Poussey Washington and later with Cindy Hayes. She is depicted as having a complex relationship with the prison administration, often acting as a mediator or advocate for her fellow inmates. Her intelligence and resourcefulness are frequently highlighted, as is her vulnerability and her struggle with the injustices of the prison system.

Taystee's character arc involves significant personal growth and profound challenges. She experiences moments of joy and camaraderie, but also faces hardship, loss, and the systemic racism and corruption that plague the correctional facility. Her journey explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the fight for dignity and equality within the confines of prison. Her efforts to create positive change within Litchfield and later at the newly established maximum-security prison become a central focus of her narrative.