Marlisse Edwards

The journey I went through finding myself as a biracial person in a predominantly White town is a big part of my story. I’ve lived in Bethlehem my whole life, and I feel really comfortable here in the community I’ve created. I feel lucky to have a supportive family - they’ve helped to explain the world to me. I wouldn’t be who I am today without my older sister Mathis. She found her identity as a Black person- embraced her curls and herself - and unintentionally guided me as well. My parents have always listened to my struggles and helped me deal with situations that were really unpleasant. And my oldest sister Shauna is my comfort person.

I am proud of my involvement in the community I have built at school. I’m the co-president of ALANA (African American, Latinx, Asian, Native American & Allies) which is a safe space for people of color, but a group that also pushes us to move out of our comfort zone to stand up for equality and issues important to us. I’m also the social media manager for the Environmental Club, so I work to get people involved in activities to preserve the environment. I have always been an activist, going to rallies, but when I spoke at the rally on the anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, I saw myself as someone who advocates and has a voice, contributing in important ways to the town and community.

I know I still have a lot to discover about myself - my story is not published yet. But I feel like I am making a difference.