Honoring Alfonso Reyes

Luis García Montero, the head of the Cervantes Institute, emphasized the significance of “El Regiomontano Universal” as a foundational figure in fostering the university and literary spirit with a humanist vision.

In celebration of the 135th anniversary of writer Alfonso Reyes’s birth, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon (UANL) paid tribute to “El Regiomontano Universal” with multiple honor guards at the School of Philosophy and Literature (FFYL).

Members of the Honorable UANL Board of Governors, led by President Benjamin Limon Rodriguez, along with central administration officials, representatives of the University Workers Union, directors and student leaders from high schools and colleges, and faculty and students from the FFYL, participated in the honor guards commemorating the poet, translator, and essayist from Monterrey.

During the event, José Javier Villarreal of the UANL Office of Extension and Culture chaired the anniversary ceremony on behalf of UANL President Santos Guzmán López. He remarked that Alfonso Reyes’ humanism is evident in his written legacy, and through this, the institution maintains its commitment to disseminating his work.

A Beacon of Humanistic Ideals

For many Mexican writers, Alfonso Reyes is esteemed as the greatest humanist of Nuevo León and a prominent representative of the state on the global stage. His legacy transcends borders, with his poems, essays, narratives, and chronicles becoming integral to a broad international intellectual movement.

Throughout his life, Alfonso Reyes promoted culture through his extensive travels and stays in foreign countries. His literary work, known as the Alfonsino testament, reflects a unique cultural vision of his generation and his deep literary interests.

Luis García Montero, head of the Cervantes Institute, underscored the renowned writer from Monterrey as a pivotal figure in shaping both the university and literary ethos with a humanistic perspective.

The Spanish academic, literary critic, and poet emphasized that Reyes’ writings during his time in Madrid became a symbol for fostering solidarity and advocating for universal human rights.

“I am profoundly grateful for his contributions in Madrid. Through his work, he became a beacon for contemplating solidarity, nurturing culture, and transforming it into a platform for championing universal human rights,” remarked.

“The true wealth of a community lies in its culture, and our best pledge to the future is to inherit the invaluable legacies of our predecessors. It is through memory that we become cognizant of both the justice and injustices of the present, underscoring the vital significance of Alfonso Reyes’ humanistic endeavors.”

Luis García Montero