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I’m astounded by ⁦‪Pádraig Ó Tuama’s generosity & tenderness in discussing my poem, “Father,” and how it wrestles with God, fatherhood, love, & faith.

What a gift this series is. I’m so honored.

Thank you, ⁦‪The On Being Project‬⁩.

My virtual book tour for “Fractures” was over in a blink––thank you to everyone who showed up during this strange & stressful time to celebrate with me.

If you couldn’t make any of the events, here are 2 of my favorites that you can watch––

“When Lightning Strikes”: https://bit.ly/2VvUiZM

Last night’s closing event w/ Elizabeth Acevedo: https://bit.ly/33HQhpT

Shortly after first visiting the Nuyorican Poets Café as a teenager in 1999, I’ll never forget the first time I saw him sitting nonchalantly in his stool at the corner of the bar. “Señor Algarín…,” I began, grasping for something significant to say—“Hey, Papi,” he responded with his big smile and familiar embrace, as though we’d known each other forever.

Years later, when I was working on an anthology with Miguel, we’d meet up every couple of weeks to talk about the project. We’d sit at his favorite neighborhood spot in the LES and he’d just tell stories for hours. We met up like that, consistently, for nearly two years. The anthology never came to be, but I’ve cherished that time I got to spend witnessing his charisma and wisdom. We’d laugh, cry, talk shit, argue, and laugh some more.

I was (and am) awed by the fullness of the life and legacy of Miguel Algarín. He built a sacred space that allowed me to not just find my voice but find my way toward the person I needed to become. That brick building, which was once his living room, has given so many of us a home for the first time. The Nuyorican will always be home. Thank you for building a home for us, Miguel. Rest, Miguel.

#RIPMiguelAlgarin

#NuyoricanLegend