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.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
