Raised in a family that valued community and shared resources, Larry emphasizes the importance of family values. After the passing of his brother Bernie—who led the Juneteenth Festival—Larry stepped in and now serves as President of the Tucson Juneteenth Festival Committee.
Doris grew up in a close-knit and loving family, with traditions centered around food and fellowship. She went on to lead the local chapter of the NAACP as President/Director and continues to be a respected voice in the community.
A proud University of Arizona alumna and one of the original founders of the U of A Black Alumni Association, Annie played an active role in the civil rights movement, particularly in the fight against hair discrimination. We are honored to have captured her story around the time the CROWN Act was passed.
A respected historian and educator, Dr. Sanchez’s family has been in Tucson since the 1920s. She has dedicated her career to chronicling African American history and tracing her family’s genealogy, contributing invaluable insights to the community.
Ed Sparks pictured here front-right, was serving in the United State Air Force and this photo was taken somewhere in Japan. Dr. Ed Sparks, a longtime Tucson Dentist, was from an actively learning family and they were dedicated to the health and welfare of others. His uncle Dr. Martin Edwards was drafted and fought in World War I before graduating from medical school. Dr. Ed Sparks’ grandfather Simon Edwards served in the 8th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery Unit for the Union Army during the Civil War.
Ed’s Daughter Robin says, “We are as American as Peach Cobbler.” Happy Father’s Day, Happy 4th!
Family love, Understanding with a healthy dose that respects history!
Video production by Ken Roth Associates
With information on Gayle Hopkins
Video production by Ken Roth Associates
From Detroit to Arizona…An Actor for All!
An actor and proud snowbird, Lou splits his time between Tucson and Detroit. He appeared in several westerns filmed in Tucson and continues to be a part of the creative and cultural scene here in Tucson. Listen to the following audio interview or watch his performance on ER Quintessence of Dust to learn more about Lou Beaty.
A Tucson Icon…Outstanding in everything she touched!
Recorded by AAMSAZ
To learn more about Dr. Laura Banks-Reed’s remarkable journey, we also welcome you to visit this page from Tucson Unified School District (TUSD). Dr. Banks-Reed, with too many awards to list, transitioned from being a student in a segregated school to a leader in the fight for integration. Raised in the Barrio Anita neighborhood, she dedicated 39 years of her career to TUSD, with Banks Elementary named in her honor.
Website by AAMSAZ
Logo Design by Felicia Penza -feliciapenza@gmail.com
Museum is located on the Campus of the University of Arizona
Student Union Room 244
(1303 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719)
Park in the 2nd Street Garage
