Personal Statement:
Background/Expertise:
Crystal D. Charley, MBA, CD (SMC) is a nationally recognized advocate for reproductive
justice, housing equity, and civil rights. She currently serves as Policy Manager at Fair Share
Housing Center, where she advances legislative strategies that ensure fair housing,
dismantle systemic barriers, and center racial and economic justice across New Jersey.
As Founder and Executive Director of Melanin and Maternal Wellness, Crystal leads a
village-centered organization delivering doula care, childbirth education, and policy
advocacy for Black families. A Certified SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion and
Childbirth Educator, she grounds her work in cultural responsiveness, healing justice, and
Black-centered care.
Crystal also serves as 2nd Vice President of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference and sits
on the boards of Planned Parenthood of NCSNJ and the Center for Health Equity and
Wellbeing. She is the author of the Asè Toolkit and co-author of My Black Health is Beautiful,
both advancing African-centered maternal health.
A proud mother and legacy member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Crystal embodies
leadership rooted in love, liberation, and legacy.
