Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and the City Council approved the ¡SOMOS UNO! Cultural Heritage Strategy, marking a milestone in the city’s commitment to preserving and uplifting its vibrant arts, history, and cultural assets.
A Roadmap for Tucson’s Cultural Future
The ¡SOMOS UNO! Cultural Heritage Strategy represents Tucson’s first comprehensive plan to manage and celebrate its cultural heritage. Developed in partnership with LORD Consultants and through extensive community collaboration, the strategy identifies four priority areas:
- Creative placemaking
- Belonging and cultural equity
- Governance and policy
- Cross-sector collaboration
Launched at Tucson Meet Yourself in 2022, the public engagement process included over 1,700 surveys, workshops, and feedback sessions. The initiative reflects Tucson’s diverse population, ensuring inclusivity and equitable access to cultural resources.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Tucson’s arts, culture, and creative economy provide over 52,000 jobs and contribute $4.1 billion annually to the local economy.
Mayor Regina Romero emphasized the profound influence of cultural heritage on Tucson’s identity, stating,
“Tucson’s rich history and cultural expressions are as vital to our social fabric as the Sonoran Desert is to our landscape. This strategy strengthens our city’s role as a world capital for culture.”
The strategy outlines actionable steps to enhance public engagement, support cultural facilities, and preserve historic sites. Initiatives include resource-sharing for organizations and operational frameworks for effective governance of cultural assets.
Spotlight: Tucson’s Cultural Ecosystem
Priority Areas |
Goals |
|---|---|
| Creative Placemaking | Highlight historical sites and foster local artists. |
| Belonging and Cultural Equity | Ensure inclusivity across all cultural activities. |
| Governance and Policy | Develop frameworks for managing cultural resources. |
| Cross-Sector Collaboration | Partner with businesses and community organizations. |
Building on a Strong Foundation
Tucson’s cultural landscape has been shaped by the Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui peoples, whose stewardship of the region spans thousands of years. The ¡SOMOS UNO! plan builds on this rich heritage while addressing contemporary needs.
City Manager Tim Thomure highlighted the community’s involvement:
“The engagement process confirmed how deeply these issues resonate with Tucsonans. This plan reflects the city’s collective vision for cultural preservation.”
Looking Ahead
The ¡SOMOS UNO! Cultural Heritage Strategy complements other city initiatives, including Tucson Resilient Together and Move Tucson. Together, these plans aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
For more information, explore the Full Strategy Document here and the The State of Culture Report.
Final Thoughts
The ¡SOMOS UNO! initiative sets a strong foundation for Tucson’s cultural future. By embracing its diverse heritage and fostering collaboration, Tucson positions itself as a beacon of arts and culture for generations to come.
Sources: THX News & City of Tucson.
