Yosimar Reyes is a nationally-acclaimed poet, performer, and cultural strategist whose work explores migration, queerness, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling. Born in Guerrero, Mexico and raised in East San Jose, Reyes first captured attention at sixteen with his powerful spoken word performances across the Bay Area and has since become one of the leading voices shaping contemporary narratives around immigration and identity.
His repertoire spans nationally-recognized keynotes, dynamic writing workshops, and his acclaimed one-man show Prieto, a coming-of-age story that navigates migration, sexuality, and socio-economic struggle. Reyes' work invites audiences to reclaim joy, reframe cultural memory, and embrace the power of their own stories.
Reyes made history as the first undocumented poet to serve as the Santa Clara County Poet Laureate, was named a 2024 Creative Ambassador by the City of San Jose, and has been recognized by The Advocate and Remezcla for his contributions to the arts and social change. He is the recipient of awards including the NALAC Catalyst for Change Grant, the Gerbode Foundation Grant, and the Walter & Elise Haas Creative Work Fund Grant. His writing appears in MARIPOSAS: A Modern Anthology of Queer Latino Poetry, Somewhere We Are Human, and the forthcoming UndocuPoetics.
Through his keynotes, performances, and workshops, Reyes continues to build cultural wealth and champion immigrant narratives, using story as a tool for visibility, resilience, and transformation.
UndocuJoy: Shifting the Narrative of Migration and Resilience
Too often, media narratives focus solely on struggle and fear. In this presentation, Yosimar Reyes offers an empowering alternative—highlighting the joy, brilliance, and creativity within undocumented communities. Through personal story, insight, and sharp humor, he invites audiences to reframe what it means to thrive beyond legal status and reclaim narratives of power, not pity.
Venimos a Triunfar: Writing Workshop for Voice, Power, and Belonging
This interactive session creates an intentional space to use writing as a tool for highlighting resilience, brilliance, and community connection. Through guided exercises and dialogue, Yosimar Reyes centers the undocumented experience while welcoming participants from all walks of life to claim their stories, amplify their voices, and build belonging through shared truth and creative expression.
Stories That Stay With Us: Highlights from “Prieto” and Other Performances
This curated performance draws from Yosimar Reyes’ celebrated solo show Prieto, alongside other staged and spoken word works, offering a moving and humorous look at migration, queerness, family, and becoming. Through poetry, storytelling, and stage excerpts, Reyes invites audiences into a journey of survival and joy,showing how we carry our stories, and how they carry us.
An Evening with Yosimar Reyes
Experience the heart, humor, and brilliance of Yosimar Reyes in an evening of poetry and conversation. Through powerful spoken word and honest reflection, Yosimar shares stories of migration, queerness, and resilience. The event includes live performance, a moderated conversation, and space for audience connection.
