Anita Woodley is a journalist, actress, playwright, literary teaching artist, mixed-media artist, poet, producer, and free jazz vocalist. She grew up in Oakland, California, in housing provided by the Oakland Housing Authority. She attended Oakland Technical High School, where she served as All-Student Body President, PTSA Student Representative, and Youth Commissioner Co-Chair for the Mayor of Oakland's Youth Council. She now lives in North Carolina with her son and husband.