Glenda Lewis Biography | Wiki
Glenda Lewis (born 1976) is an acclaimed American author and activist known for using her writing to spread awareness about social justice issues. Born in Chicago, Lewis developed a passion for literature and writing early on. She attended NYU, majoring in English and creative writing.
Initially a journalist, Lewis published her debut novel “Speak Up” in 2003 to critical acclaim, shining light on injustice in society. Over the next decade, she wrote several more bestselling fiction and non-fiction books focused on issues like poverty, racism, inequality. Lewis skillfully humanizes societal problems through narrative writing.
In addition to being an author, Lewis actively participates in progressive causes, delivering speeches and rallying support for reforms. In 2016, she founded “Your Voice” – a non-profit using writing/publishing to amplify marginalized voices and drive societal change.
Through 20+ years of impactful writing and activism, Lewis has established herself as a leading voice on equality and social justice reform. She has brought tremendous attention to these issues through powerful storytelling and inspiring advocacy work. Though still early in her career, her influence is unmatched.
Glenda Lewis Age
Now 47 years old, Glenda Lewis has dedicated over two decades to activism and acclaimed fiction/non-fiction writing spotlighting inequality. Born in 1976 in Chicago, her passion for literature and social justice began early on.
Glenda Lewis First Husband
At NYU in the 1990s, Glenda Lewis bonded with Daniel Reed over literature and activism. After a year together, Reed proposed right before their 1999 graduation. Subsequently, months later, they married in Chicago. Early on the couple did progressive writing and organized grassroots campaigns. Though busy, Lewis cherished Reed’s shared passions. Tragically however, Reed died of cancer in 2004, leaving 28-year-old Lewis alone. Initially, Lewis felt directionless from the loss. However, a year later she published her first novel “Speak Up”. It then drove change through strong writing. Despite the fact they were together only five years, Reed had anchored Lewis as she began writing and activism.
Glenda Lewis Sister
Glenda Lewis’ younger sister Nina was her biggest cheerleader, selflessly providing encouragement as Lewis battled cancer and loss. Despite Nina tragically dying in a car accident in 2009, her uplifting spirit continued motivating Lewis’ writing and activism.
Glenda Lewis WXYZ
In 2022, Glenda Lewis co-founded the non-profit WXYZ supporting arts programs for disadvantaged youths, aiming to inspire creativity and self-expression through writing, music, theater.
Glenda Lewis’s Marriage
Is Glenda Lewis still married?
After losing husband Reed in 2004, Glenda Lewis found love with Maxwell Curtis at a 2006 gala. Like Reed, Curtis bonded over using writing and advocacy for change. His kindness resonated as Lewis grieved. Six months after meeting, he proposed while walking wintery Chicago streets. They married in 2007 and just had their 17th anniversary. Now nearing 50, Lewis says Curtis’s patient love enables her prolific career. Despite sometimes comparing him and Reed, Lewis again found joy with Curtis while fulfilling Reed’s legacy. Curtis gives Lewis support to fully devote to activism.
Glenda Lewis’s Illness | Cancer
When Glenda Lewis got a breast cancer diagnosis in 2019, she felt paralyzed by fear. Memories haunted her of losing her husband to it. With Maxwell’s support, Lewis found strength. She went to all chemo and radiation appointments over 6 hard months. however it slowed her work, Lewis led writing workshops at her nonprofit. This helped others by sharing healing stories. By early 2020, she was thankfully in remission. Now 54 and cancer-free, she writes life has uncertainty. With dedication and care, there’s light even in the darkest times. Lewis empowers herself and others through hardship. She emerges toughened, set to spark change via moving prose.
Glenda Lewis Net Worth
Glenda keeps a modest public persona. Yet she has quietly built a $15 million net worth over decades fighting inequality through writing and activism. She does not splurge, but loves that her wealth can expand charitable efforts. Her nonprofit Your Voice uplifts oppressed groups. After co-founding it in 2016, Lewis’ wealth let Your Voice grow nationally. More workshops and publications now serve marginalized people. Book profits and family money also support Lewis’ activism. She needs no other income. Still, her passion for uplifting overlooked stories through writing and grassroots work stays strong. So she funnels wealth to progress an enduring humanitarian legacy. Without chasing profit, Lewis organically funded her lifelong inequality fight.