Rhyanna Burks
Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy, a professor of Engligh at Dillard University and former Poet Laureate of Louisiana at her book signing covering "Hurricane Katrina & Rita at 20: An Anthopology of Louisiana Poetry & Art" held in John B. Cade Library on November 6th.
On November 6th, The John B. Cade library was filled with students who were excited to hear Louisiana native Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy read snippets and give incredible insight to her past and latest writings- “Hurricanes Katrina and Rita at 20 – An Anthology of Louisiana Poetry & Art”. With heartfelt stories, reflections of how Louisiana has revolved, and poetic history, Dr. Saloy reminded the audience of the importance of storytelling in persevering her cultures. The event was more than a book signing but a celebration of survival, cultural integration and memories. Her words carried the weight of experience and rhythm from the heart of New Orleans.
Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy is a proud native of New Orleans, Louisiana, a former Poet Laureate of Louisiana and a Conrad N. Hilton Endowed Professor of English, at Dillard University. She spoke passionately about her inspirations and the voices that impacted her work, “The influences for all of my writings comes for the authors before me like John Milton – him being blind and still making differences within literature but also the love and culture of my community” she explained. Reflecting on her early days and experiences as a writer, she added “ I didn’t hear my New Orleans/ southern voice so that inspired me to keep writing”. Her deep connection to Louisiana’s language,traditions, and music radiated throughout her discussion, as she showed how art became a major part of preserving the essence in a place – especially in times of loss and renewal.
Students, faculty and others were eager to engage with Dr. Saloy during the Q&A session, reflecting the multigenerational curiosity her work inspires. One student, Danae’ Wilson, a sophomore here at Southern University, asked the question: “ What were the cultural differences in New Orleans ever since Hurricane Katrina took place?” The room fell quiet as Dr.Saloy reflected deeply answering but it came with a metaphor- “ Just like a leaf is born, wind makes it move, and the sun dries it out – nothing stays the same. The foundation of the culture is strong”.
Throughout her words and the many authors and poets she collaborated with on this project and others, Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy reminded the audience, particularly the students, that while storms may change landscapes, they can’t change the roots. She emphasized that spiritual worship and the history of the enslavement of African Americans are the base of New Orleans’ culture, shaping its unique rhythms, soul and resilience. As she discussed the aftermath of Katrina and Rita, she expressed that she hopes that the “cultural differences don’t disappear” as generations change. Her anthology stands as both a call to remembrance but an artistic tribute – urging readers to honor what endures even as time reshapes it.
Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy’s book signing was more than a literary event but a homecoming of spirit. Through poetry and conversation, she bridged past and present, reminding that the culture and story of Louisiana will continue to unfold and evolve.