“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.” The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2016, this innovative program launched at Cook County Jail with young men awaiting trial for violent offenses.Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle develops reflection, critical thinking, literacy skills, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.
In collaboration with:
Cook County Sheriff’s Office
The Drawing J. A. Salgado
I saw my father every once in a while. He traveled a lot for his job. However, my mom was always around.
I remember when I was four years old, my mother woke me up that Monday morning.
She showered me, put coconut oil in my hair and combed it.
She took my hand and took me to an unknown place. On the way, she would tell me stories about my dad.
Big whales and little mermaids following the ship.
I started to cry.
I grabbed my mother’s hands and walked proud beside her.
Both of my parents left me. My father left us so he could work and provide a home. My mother left me so I could learn and be independent. But they also came back. They left me, but they never abandoned me.
I hope my children see my absence the same.
I am J. A. Salgado. I am from the curtains. From glass and chicken. From the tree of lemons; sour, green, juice. I am from the corn. Green leaves and black hair. I’m from La Loteria and eyeglasses. From Luis and Kevin. I’m from walking and swimming. From “Where are you?” and “Jump on the bed!” I’m from monotheism and the holy book. I’m from Acapulco, Enchiladas, fish and mariscos. From the tattoo of my father that he has on his arm. La plata que limpiaba mi mama. Bookshelves with a photo album. From those moments, aquellos momentos, nunca olvidados.