Background & Upbringing
Marc was born into a working-class African American family in Beaumont, Texas, where his father labored in the local refinery and his mother worked long shifts as a nurse. Despite financial constraints, they prioritized education and instilled in Marc a strong sense of resilience and community.
Education
After graduating from a public high school, Marc attended a historically Black college in Louisiana, majoring in Sociology. He went on to complete a Master’s in Education, focusing on inclusive curricula for underrepresented communities.
Professional Background
Marc started his career as a high school teacher, where he led initiatives for LGBTQ+ youth support. His passion for advocacy naturally flowed into writing: first through personal essays published online, then through a critically acclaimed memoir detailing his experiences as a gay Black man in rural Texas. Today, Marc is an in-demand speaker and creative writing workshop facilitator who champions intersectionality and self-expression.
Places Lived
From Beaumont, Marc relocated to Houston for broader opportunities and a more vibrant social scene, later spending a year in Chicago collaborating with arts nonprofits. He returned to Texas to be closer to family but remains active in national LGBTQ+ literary circles.
Influences
Marc’s work is heavily influenced by James Baldwin’s seminal essays and E. Lynn Harris’s groundbreaking novels. He also finds resonance in the music of icons like Beyoncé and Luther Vandross, which underscore themes of empowerment and identity. His writing on romance and sophistication is defined by a desire to celebrate intimacy, authenticity, and the power of building community despite societal barriers.
