Marie Sutton is a freelance writer in Birmingham, Alabama with a passion for writing about the African American experience. She has served as an essayist, radio talk show host, blogger, and editorial writer. Marie penned a book about the A.G. Gaston Motel in Birmingham, which was the only place African Americans could stay for first-class hotel accommodations during the civil rights movement. She is currently writing a publication about The Magic City Classic and has a working manuscript on the life of her indomitable grandmother. Marie is married and is the mother of two brilliant teens. [@marieasutton]

Born and raised in Scottsboro, Alabama, Leah Tucker’s writing explores modern African American folklore, through multiple genres. She attended The University of Alabama and The New School and worked as a grassroots organizer for both local and national nonprofits. Currently, Tucker is working on her first book and lives in West Philadelphia, considering the city her anthropological playground. [@jawneegoddess]