Get to Know Our Resident Journalists: Manuel Aragon

Meet Manuel Aragon, a distinguished Latinx filmmaker and writer from Denver who illuminates the Northside's vibrant community through his speculative fiction collection, Norteñas, and critically acclaimed web series, Welcome to the Northside. His work, recognized by nominations such as the 2020 PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize and features on platforms like MTV, showcases a unique blend of storytelling and social commentary.

Anthony Grimes (AG): What drives you to write?

Manuel Aragon (MA): " As an artist, I'm driven to write by a deep desire to give voice to the stories and experiences of marginalized communities, particularly those of Black, Indigenous, and Latinx people. Writing allows me to explore complex issues like identity, belonging, and cultural displacement. Through my work, I aim to preserve the rich heritage of my community and highlight the everyday struggles and triumphs of its members. Ultimately, my passion for storytelling is fueled by a commitment to social justice and a belief in the power of narrative to create understanding and change.”

AG: What do you most love about Denver?

MA: " What I most love about Denver is its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community spirit. The city has a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty, with stunning mountain views and a deep connection to nature. I appreciate the sense of history and the strong cultural roots, especially in neighborhoods like the Northside, where the traditions and stories of Mexican and Mexican-American communities are alive and thriving. Denver's art scene is also incredibly dynamic, providing a platform for a wide range of voices and perspectives. It's a place where creativity flourishes, and there's a strong sense of community and belonging.”

AG: If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be and why?

MA: " If I could have dinner with any fictional character, it would probably be Gabriel García Márquez's character, Úrsula Iguarán from One Hundred Years of Solitude. Úrsula is a wise and resilient matriarch who witnesses the rise and fall of her family over generations. Her strength, wisdom, and perspective on life, love, and time would make for fascinating conversation. I'd love to hear her insights on how she navigated the complexities of her family, as well as her thoughts on the cyclical nature of history and human experience."

Read Manuel’s first article “The Collective Abundance of Denver” and stay tuned for more of his unique voice. We look forward to being engaged and inspired by his trademark blend of storytelling and social commentary.

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Our Resident Journalist model is designed to help bridge the visibility gap in Denver’s arts and culture coverage. Despite the city’s vibrant cultural landscape, many powerful stories remain untold, and key figures and transformative projects often go unnoticed. Through this initiative, we’re bringing these essential narratives to the forefront, ensuring they reach the audience they deserve.

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