Josiah Luis Alderete, a co-owner of Medicine for Nightmares Bookstore & Gallery and a proud Chicano poet, shares his journey, poetry, and the impact of the Mission District on his life. His works, infused with Spanglish, honor his heritage and the neighborhood's rich history.

Early Life and Chicano Identity

Alderete, a Mission District native, grew up in a vibrant neighborhood that shaped his identity as a Chicano poet. His writings blend English and Spanish, reflecting the cultural tapestry of the Mission District. With four books to his name, Alderete has also performed in Argentina and Mexico, showcasing his poetic talent on international stages.

Impact of the Dot-Com Boom

The dot-com boom of the late 90s and early 2000s significantly altered Alderete's life. The surge in rent prices pushed him out of the Mission District, but the neighborhood's influence remained strong. "There’s Mission folks now in Oakland, Vallejo, Berkeley and Marin," he said. "We’re like a diaspora of Mission."

Childhood Memories

Alderete's childhood was marked by frequent moves within the Mission District. His parents met at a club called We, and his mother eventually moved the family to Marin, a predominantly white area. This transition was challenging for the young Alderete, who later returned to San Francisco.

Preserving Mission District's Legacy

Alderete recalls the Mission District's past with vivid memories of Latin jazz and flamenco clubs, and iconic spots like an OG Mexican diner at 20th and Mission. "It’s never going to go away, no matter how many wine bars, plant stores they put on Valencia Street," he said. For Alderete, remembering these places is not nostalgia but preserving history.

Community and Recognition

Mission Local, a free resource for San Franciscans, recently honored Alderete. He reflected on the neighborhood's enduring spirit, saying, "The Mission is exactly the way I remember it." His experiences and poetry continue to celebrate the Mission District's unique culture and history.