Author

Melissa Ferrer Civil

Melissa Ferrer Civil (she/they) is a poet, organizer, and educator living on Kaw, Kickapoo, Kansa, and Oceti Sakowin lands (Kansas City, MO). A self proclaimed artist-in-exile, they are preoccupied with constructing new communication for the manifestation of a home we all hold in our hearts. Melissa is a Charlotte Street Studio Resident, Chrysalis Institute Alumni, MFA graduate from Randolph College, and is the first Poet Laureate of Kansas City, MO. They are the founder of the arts and organizing event series A Nation In Exile. You can find their publications and videos on their website www.melissaferrerand.com. You can find their performance updates on their instagram: @melissaferrerand. You can also follow A Nation In Exile on instagram and at their website of the same name.

Melissa's Latest Articles

What Love Taught Me During The Fires This Time

By Melissa Ferrer Civil ● Fire & Verse ● January 21, 2025

Kansas City’s Poet Laureate delivers a prophetic reckoning—an unflinching meditation on survival, sacrifice, and the firestorm of our times.

How Marcellus Khaliifah Williams’s Story Shines Light on the Injustices within the Legal System

By Melissa Ferrer Civil ● Justice ● August 21, 2024

In response to the August 21 Consent Judgement, Kansas City’s Poet Laureate Melissa Ferrer Civil sheds light on the concept of justice in her op-ed, emphasizing a nurturing approach over punishment. Through Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams’ story, she challenges the flaws in the current legal system and advocates for a more compassionate and dignified treatment of individuals.