Fortis Academy students were treated to a visit from award-winning author Jessica Hoppe, continuing the investment in the campus, its young learners and their creative spirits by Nuestra Palabra: Latino Writers Having Their Say.
The Houston-based organization is dedicated to promoting Latino literature and supporting Latino writers through its initiatives and community engagement. Founder Tony Diaz connected with Harris County Department of Education through Director of Construction Joe Carreon at a League of United Latin American Citizens event earlier this year. In investing in Fortis students, who are gaining and maintaining sobriety, Diaz and Carreon connected them with community partners and opportunities to showcase their creativity.
Monday’s latest effort featured Hoppe, a New York City-based author whose book, “First in the Family: A Story of Survival, Recovery, and the American Dream,” was regarded by multiple publications as one of 2024’s best books. The memoir chronicles her journey to sobriety and attempts to deconstruct long-standing narratives about people of color and substance abuse.
The writing workshop featured Hoppe sharing her non-traditional path into writing and tips and strategies for students.
“To tell your story, you don’t have to tell us everything that happened to you,” she said. “Tell us what happened that changed you.”
Hoppe answered questions throughout the presentation and signed copies of her books to each participant. She also plans to continue working with the students and their writing. A podcast is in the works where they will be able to share their works.
“Writing with specificity is important because the more specific we are about our stories, the more it connects those feelings with others,” she said. “They’re not going to be able to identify specifically with what you went through, but they can identify with how you feel.”
This is just the latest step in the blossoming relationship between Fortis and Nuestra Palabra. Fortis student Jerry Garza recently shared a poem in front of a live audience. The piece, which explored emotions and Garza’s struggle with addiction, was well received and encompasses how Carreon and Diaz hope the initiative will build confidence while breaking down stigmas surrounding teen addiction and recovery.