In 2023, Sussy Santana became RILA's Poet-in-Residence. During her residency she worked on Las Abuelas Nos Cuentan, a bilingual, multigenerational, oral history project focusing on the personal narratives of our community elders. In the context of a global pandemic, it felt more necessary than ever to honor the wisdom of our grandparents. Sussy wanted to reflect on what our elders consider essential, how they view legacy, and what experiences have shaped them into who they are.
Below are the people who shared their story with Sussy as recorded by Marta V. Martínez, RILA's Executive Director and Community Oral Historian.
Creating and believing with Carmen Villamán
Can flowers tell stories? What role does faith have in the midst of sadness? In this interview from Las Abuelas Cuentan, we had the opportunity to talk with Mrs. Carmen Mercedes Villamán García, who takes us on a journey through her life in the Dominican Republic.
Click here to read about Carmen Villamán
Socorro "Coco" Cano simply loves being an abuela
Socorro Cano, a Colombian grandmother came to the United States at the height of the textile industry in Rhode Island. She shared about the history of the first Colombian immigrants in Central Falls, how they helped each other as they built a new home away from everything they’ve ever known.
Click here to read about Socorro Cano
Ana Fernández
Ana shares memories of her childhood, the political climate during the Trujillo dictatorship. She emphasizes the values of love, responsibility, and perseverance that have guided her life and that she hopes to pass on to her children and grandchildren.
Click here to read about Ana Fernández
Juán García
Juan's story is one of resilience, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to helping others, making him a respected elder in the Latinx community of Rhode Island.
Click here to read about Juán García
Oscar Mejías
This interview highlights Oscar's resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to serving the Latino community in Rhode Island.
Click here to read about Oscar Mejía
Sussy's Blog
Read Sussy's blog during her year-long residency with RILA.
Click here to read Sussy's Blog
