October 2024

Dear Friends,

As we transition into the fall season, I am filled with deep gratitude and anticipation reflecting on HTI’s journey over the past 28 years. Since the launch of HTI Open Plaza in November 2019, we have seen tremendous growth on the platform, with over 200 posts and podcast features combined. 

In recent months, we have showcased the outstanding contributions of our community, celebrating the impactful scholarship and literature of individuals such as Dr. Neomi De Anda, who interviewed Dr. Marlene Ferreras about her award-winning book, Insurrectionist Wisdoms: Toward a North American Indigenized Pastoral Theology. Likewise, you can read the moving poetry of 2023 Texas Poet Laureate, ire’ne lara silva from her book, the eaters of flowers. ire’ne’s work has deeply resonated with readers. Additionally, listen to Daniel Montañez, founder of the Mygration Conference, as he describes pivotal moments from his childhood in church, where the stories of families and their struggles living in the United States shaped his dedication to migrant justice. 

Looking ahead, we’re excited to share a podcast episode featuring Isabel Gonzalez, Christian Silva, and Dr. Matthew Vega as they discuss his journey as an HTI Scholar and his doctoral work on “Blaxican Theology.”

HTI Open Plaza continues to expand, to feature a rich collection of contributors who speak to the diverse experiences of the Latine community. We invite you to stay tuned for more features and to add your voice to our platform. Please share your insights, projects, and questions via Open Plaza’s submission guidelines. Let’s continue our shared journey of exploration and celebration. We look forward to reading your work.

Blessings, 

Dr. Rev. Joanne Rodríguez
Executive Director
Hispanic Theological Initiative