On September 11, 2026, Manuel González, the New Mexico State Poet Laureate, was announced as a Poet Laureate Fellow by the Academy of American Arts. He will headline the Percha Creek Poetry Festival at the Black Ranch Lodge in Kingston this Saturday.
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González explained that the fellowship will focus on his students at the Native American Community Academy. His proposal emphasizes giving Indigenous students the opportunity to perform their poetry across New Mexico, allowing them to express their experiences, trauma, and cultural heritage. He noted that this initiative not only empowers students but also promotes healing through self-expression.
During the festival, González plans to share both new works and some of his earlier poetry. He highlighted the importance of poetry as a dynamic art form that evolves alongside the poet's experiences. The event will also feature an open mic session for local poets, fostering community engagement and storytelling.
González, who has been a champion of the Albuquerque poetry slam, noted that his work is rooted in the spoken word tradition, intended to be experienced audibly. He confirmed plans to visit several locations in New Mexico, including Las Cruces, Silver City, and Deming, as part of his responsibilities as poet laureate.
The Percha Creek Poetry Festival is expected to be a gathering of local poets and a celebration of creative expression.