Melissa B. Lombardo, writer and founder of Write, Heal, Thrive LLC, was honored to take part in Making Space for the Light: Documenting the Violence that Shapes the Lives of Women and Girls. This powerful and necessary anthology, curated and edited by Mary Simmerling of Write Where We Belong, is a collaborative work that joins fellow contributors in amplifying survivor voices through story, art, and collective action.
Melissa is passionate about healing-centered storytelling and social change. She is proud to stand alongside an evolving community of writers and advocates who are transforming lived experience into awareness, education, and meaningful impact.
The recently released recording features moving readings from contributors and offers a preview of what is to come in the expanded 2026 What Were You Wearing? (WWYW) art installation exhibits. These immersive exhibits, including clothing will incorporate audio and video recordings, live readings, and story boards including one with Melissa Lombardo brings survivor narratives into powerful, embodied spaces for reflection and dialogue.
Beginning in April, the 2026 WWYW series will launch in collaboration with the Medical University of South Carolina, members of the Tri-County Sexual Assault Response Team, and the Charleston Mayor’s Office. The installation will then travel to the Conference on Crimes Against Women in May, the Michigan Justice for Children Conference in July, and Missoula, Montana in the fall in collaboration with Tveraa Photography’s MMIW Project. Each exhibit will be uniquely curated to reflect and honor stories from the local communities hosting the installation.
This work represents more than an exhibit; it is part of a growing artists’ ecosystem for change. Through storytelling, collaboration, and survivor-centered creativity, WWYW continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact across the country.
Click here to gain access to the recording.
Content Advisory:
The readings from this book contain explicit descriptions and discussions of gender-based violence, sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, and murder, including violence against children. This material may be disturbing or distressing.
If you need support during or after the event, trained support specialists are available through our longstanding partnership with Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or online at rainn.org (English) and rainn.org/es (Spanish). RAINN’s services are free, confidential, anonymous, and available 24/7 to anyone in need of support.