Exclusive: First Joint Interview with Poets Laureate, Ashley M. Jones and Salaam Green, on Making History

The city of Birmingham marked a historic moment recently as it welcomed its inaugural Poet Laureate, Salaam Green. This was complemented by another significant appointment in the state of Alabama, with Ashley M. Jones serving as the state’s Poet Laureate. Jones, at the age of 33, is the first person of color and the youngest to hold this position, marking a major leap in the 93 years since the role was established in Alabama.

Setting the scene for a groundbreaking dialogue, we were able to get both laureates on board for a compelling conversation, sharing their experiences, offering words of encouragement, laughter and love.

Aspiring for Change

Theirs is a unique story: Jones’s path included more formal training, with the poet studying writing professionally since the age of 12, whereas Green’s journey has been largely fueled by community engagement, personal growth, and the emancipatory power of words.

Both poets are advocates of how poetry can serve as a tool for change – political activation, advocacy, and healing. They’re driven to use their positions not just to create art but to contribute towards a larger societal transformation.

Staying True and Making an Impact

Jones touched upon the importance of remaining true to oneself when serving in public roles like theirs. “The reason I have this position is because of me, because of who I am already. I didn’t have to put on any airs to get the position, so I don’t have to do that to keep the position,” she stated.

Green agreed and added, “I felt some shame around that for so many years. Even in this role, I was thinking, ‘Salaam doesn’t have a book, she doesn’t have a [Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree]. How is the Spirit going to say, ‘Let me just drop you into this role.’'” This brings to light how often artists, despite their varying backgrounds and styles, grapple with feelings of inadequacy, underscoring the need for broadening the perception of who poets can be.

A Voice for Everyone

With their diverse backgrounds and engaging personas, both Jones and Green serve to symbolize the wide-ranging experiences and backgrounds that exist within their practice, showcasing that there is room for everyone in the world of poetry.

As visionaries and role models, both Jones and Green continue to trailblaze the path for future poets and creatives. “You stepped into your dream, into your destiny,” Green mentions about Jones, adding, “And then others can see themselves in you.”

Indeed, as they continue to shape history, Jones and Green are not just leaving an indelible impact on their respective communities, but are also leading the way for future poets, creative artists, and individuals to pursue their dreams, irrespective of hurdles, fostering a legacy of creativity, resilience, and inclusivity.

Find Ashley M. Jones online at ashleymjonespoetry.com, on Instagram @cityofawoman, and on Facebook at Poet Ashley M. Jones. Find Salaam Green online at theliteraryhealingarts.com and on Instagram @theliteraryhealer.