Greater Phoenix owes much of its modern character to the many cultures that have enhanced the area’s social fabric. From the original Native American inhabitants and early Spanish explorers to the more recent contributions of vibrant world cultures, the area’s rich cultural mix shines into many facets of everyday life. A closer look reveals opportunities for entertainment and enlightenment.
The Multi-Cultural Affairs Department and the Multi-Cultural and Arts Foundation (MCAF) – components of the Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau (GPCVB) – share a commitment to bringing a greater awareness of the area’s diverse cultural heritage to visitors and residents alike. The MCAF members advise the leadership of the GPCVB and help develop programs to increase economic opportunities for local ethnic owned businesses.
HISPANIC AMERICAN
When the Arizona Territory and later the state of Arizona was formed, Hispanic families had been living in the area for generations. Their longtime presence is abundantly evident in the art, architecture, music and cuisine that Greater Phoenix visitors encounter today. The following attractions offer a glimpse into the vibrant and creative Hispanic American culture:
Cesar Chavez Memorial Phoenix City Hall
Cesar Chavez Park 602.262.6111
Chicano Research Collection 480.965.2594
Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds 602.237.3533
Movimiento Artisto del Rio Salado 126 South Central Avenue
NATIVE AMERICAN
Twenty-one federally recognized Native American tribes reside in Arizona, with a total population of roughly 300,000 second only to Oklahoma. The most visible are the Navajo, who occupy a 14-million-acre reservation covering the northeastern corner of the state and extending into Utah and New Mexico. Hopi, Apache, Yaqui, Hualapai and many other tribes enhance Arizona’s unique regional character. Learn more about Native cultures at these area attractions;
Heard Museum 602.252.8848
Hoo-Hoogam Ki Museum 480.362.6320
Pueblo Grande Museum and Archeological Park 602.495.0900
Tribute to Navajo Code Talkers Central Avenue and Thomas Road
ASIAN AMERICAN
Accounting for about three percent of the area’s population, the Asian American community is represented by residents from China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Tibet, Thailand and the Pacific islands. Visit the following area attractions to experience the unique contributions these cultures have made to the state’s ethnic diversity;
Arizona Buddhist Temple 602.278.0036
COFCO Chinese Cultural Center
Chinatown Project Exhibit 2nd and Jefferson Street
Japanese Friendship Garden 602.256.3204
Korean Cultural Center 602.254.6646
Re-creation of Japanese Internment Camps 480.929.0292
AFRICAN AMERICAN
The African American population has a rich history in Phoenix and has made important historical contributions to the West. From the Buffalo Soldiers who were instrumental in Arizona’s territorial history to community leaders who joined the national civil rights campaign and helped desegregate Phoenix schools, African Americans have influenced Arizona for generations. Discover more about their important contributions at these area attractions;
Black Theatre Troupe, Inc. 602.258.8128
Eastlake Park Civil Rights Memorial 16th and Jefferson Street
First Institutional Baptist Church 602.258.1998
George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center 602.254.7516
Jesse Owens Memorial Medical Center 602.824.4352
Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church 602.253.8426