Arte Público Press: A New Chapter for Latino Literature

September 02, 2025

This week marks a historic moment for Latino literature in the United States. After 45 years of leadership, Dr. Nicolás Kanellos, founder of Arte Público Press, is stepping down, passing the torch to a new generation committed to amplifying Latino voices.

We first came across this story in the Houston Chronicle and felt it was important to share with our community. Arte Público Press represents the power of Latino storytelling, and this milestone deserves recognition.

Founded in 1979 at the University of Houston, Arte Público Press is the nation’s oldest and largest Latino-focused publishing house. Over the decades, it has published more than 700 titles, bringing forward powerful works from acclaimed authors such as Sandra Cisneros and Victor Villaseñor. Its mission has always been clear: to ensure Latino stories are told, celebrated, and preserved.

As Dr. Kanellos transitions into retirement, Dr. Gabriela Baeza Ventura steps in as Executive Director, prepared to expand the press’s reach into the digital era. Her vision includes advancing the U.S. Latino Digital Humanities Center, fostering new talent, and building pathways for emerging Latino authors whose voices are too often overlooked.

At Silicon Valley Latino, we celebrate Arte Público Press for its unwavering dedication to representation and cultural preservation. This transition not only honors the legacy of Dr. Kanellos but also reaffirms a powerful truth: our stories matter, and our voices will continue to shape the future of American literature.

For more on Arte Público Press, visit artepublicopress.com