McAllen Poet Laureate, Gabriel Hugo Sanchez Martinez, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, arts and culture, Rio Grande Valley
Staff Report
McAllen TX - The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and the City of McAllen announced the appointment of Gabriel Hugo Sanchez Martinez as the 2026–2028 City of McAllen Poet Laureate, a two-year honorary civic role recognizing poets who contribute to the cultural and creative life of the community.
The Poet Laureate program is housed by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.
According to the announcement, Sanchez Martinez is a poet, publisher and arts advocate whose work has influenced the literary landscape of the Rio Grande Valley for more than two decades. He is the founder of The Raving Press and the Border Arts Network, organizations focused on publishing, public programming and literary initiatives.
His work includes the development of anthologies, readings and collaborative spaces aimed at supporting both emerging and established writers and expanding opportunities for creative expression in the region.
“Gabriel’s longstanding commitment to the literary and artistic community in the Rio Grande Valley reflects a deep investment in culture, creativity, and access,” said Leigh Wooldridge, Vice President of Visit McAllen. “His work continues to create space for voices that represent the richness and diversity of our region, and we are proud to recognize his contributions as part of McAllen’s cultural landscape.”
As Poet Laureate, Sanchez Martinez will serve as a cultural ambassador for the City of McAllen, promoting poetry as a form of public expression within the community.
“I do not see a separation between poetry and advocacy. Poetry becomes a living thing when it is shared within the community that shaped it,” Sanchez Martinez said.
His stated vision for the role includes expanding access to poetry, amplifying underrepresented voices and integrating literary expression into public spaces throughout McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Source - McAllen Chamber of Commerce / City of McAllen