Crystal M. Hayes is an activist, writer, and proud mother of her 18 year-old daughter who will be a first-year college student in the fall. She is a dedicated anti-racist activist and trainer committed to eliminating structural and institutional racism and gender inequality in every aspect of the human experience. Crystal received her BA from Mount Holyoke College in African American studies and politics and a master’s degree in clinical social work from the Smith College School for Social Work. She lives in North Carolina and is currently researching a book on race and motherhood. Her research and writing interests include women's health, Black life and culture, racial justice, and social policy.