“[Antonio, We Know You] is an unassuming family narrative — a quest-based on hope, redemption, and triumph, and it affirms the spirit of integrity in us all.” – Jimmy Santiago Baca
Chicano author, advocate, and tribal lawyer Antonio Salazar-Hobson just released his memoir titled “Antonio, We Know You: A Memoir” last April 22 through Wyatt-McKenzie. It tells the author’s experiences from being a kidnapping and abuse survivor to rediscovering his purpose in life. The powerful memoir offers a story about overcoming hardships, maintaining strength and resiliency, and finding hope for a life full of love and purpose.
In his memoir, Antonio Salazar-Hobson wrote important dates and experiences of his life in great detail. From his experiences living as an immigrant farmworker working in crop fields, being kidnapped, sexually abused, and finally regaining purpose in his life, every aspect made a mark. It contributed to who he is now as an individual.
Antonio Salazar-Hobson was the 11th of 14 children living as farmworkers in Phoenix, Arizona. At the age of four, he was kidnapped by his white neighbor—the Hobsons, who sexually abused him. The amount of physical, mental, and sexual abuse Antonio received from the Hobsons was so tremendous that he attempted to take his own life
before the age of ten.
As a teen, he finally broke away from the influence of the Hobsons and became connected with Cesar Chavez, who took him under his wing and changed his life. Antonio found the strength to graduate from law school and become a lawyer who focuses on union-side labor and tribal law through him. Antonio conducts many federal court trials on behalf of Latino workers.
Unsettling but Inspirational
Just a heads up before diving into this book, trigger warnings; this book contains issues related to sexual abuse, kidnapping, suicide, and pedophilia. Some audiences might find this book unsettling due to the sensitivity of the present problems, but I still recommend everyone to give this book a try, for it is a story focusing on hope and survival. It entails a powerful message that you can overcome everything and start a new life, even if you’re a victim of sexual abuse.
I commend Antonio Salazar-Hobson for boldly sharing his story for others to see. Sexual abuse, pedophilia, and violence are still ongoing issues many individuals face daily. I applaud Mr. Salazar Hobson for his courage and using his voice to raise awareness about these issues.
Antonio, We Know You is titled after a critical moment Antonio had with Cesar Chavez, as he confirmed his belief in Antonio’s commitment to La Raza’s labor struggles. The title also entails another meaning: that the people who care for us deeply will know who we are as individuals. You, as a person, are not defined by your past but by your morals, values, and virtues in life. Antonio’s story is the definition of perseverance and determination amidst all hardships. I recommend everyone to read his memoir.
‘Antonio, We Know You: A Memoir” is currently available in digital and paperback on Amazon. Grab your copy now!
