Melissa Whiteford St. Clair grew up a stones throw from the Mason-Dixon Line in Whiteford, Maryland. She married her high school sweetheart and for the next 30 years, home was where the U.S. Marine Corps sent them. Putting down roots in South Carolina, she found herself emotionally affected by the rise in social injustice in our country and she dedicated herself to learning more about racism. While participating in the course “On The Matter of Race: White People Committed to Beginning the Journey Together” led by Lynne Maureen Hurdle Price, poetry became a processing mechanism for her thoughtful reflections and responses to homework assignments through verse. At the encouragement of others, she published her first chapbook Home Work A Collection of Poems Sparked by One White Woman’s Journey on the Matter of Race on Harriet Tubman Day, March 10, 2021. Her collection of poems brings readers into the author’s meaningful exploration and study of racism and social justice in American history and today’s society. A lifelong learner, Melissa’s study of matters of race continues along with involvement in antiracism efforts, sharing her spoken words at open mic and public events. She was named the “Rise and Shine: What American Means To Me” State Winner by the South Carolina Society of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) with the entry of a photo and accompanying poem. Melissa is the Founder of White Girl Advocacy LLC building a community of lifelong learners and advocates for social justice by sharing her journey and encouraging others to use curiosity, and creativity as tools for personal discovery. She has an affinity for bees, yoga, and porch sitting.