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Discover the power of art and compassion in a free, community-wide event with "Amal Walks Across America." Join us in welcoming Little Amal, a 12-foot puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, to Old Pueblo as part of her 6,000-mile journey in search of family and friends.
Amal is traveling across the United States to learn firsthand about a country that has long been a refuge for those seeking safety and opportunity. Her walk is a celebration of art, hope and shared humanity that aims to unite communities while refocusing attention on the urgent needs of refugees and highlighting the rich cultures immigrants bring.
Schedule of Events:
6 a.m. – Sunrise on Cemamagi Du'ag
Desert Laboratory at Tumamoc Hill
Little Amal will join hundreds of Tucsonans to climb the oldest continuously inhabited hill in the country and to catch a magical sunrise over the saguaros. She will witness a land blessing and be reminded that she walks on ancestral lands.
9 a.m. – ¡Bienvenida a Nuestro Barrio!
Galeria Mitotera
On her way from Tumamoc, Amal will notice the rich history of our Chicanx, Mexican, and Indigenous communities. The smell of home-cooked foods and the sounds of music will fill the air upon her arrival at Galeria Mitotera's community art space. Amal will be welcomed to our Barrio of South Tucson with a seat at our community breakfast table, performances by local mariachi and folklórico groups and a fun-filled piñata-breaking!
10 a.m. – Dos Vidas Car Ride
Cruise through South Tucson
After a warm welcome to South Tucson, Amal will catch a ride with Dos Vidas Car Club and friends, and head to a block party downtown. Along the ride, she will see vibrant neighborhood murals, cross the threshold of iconic Five Points and pass by beautiful Santa Cruz Church.
11 a.m. – ¡Hola! A Tucson Block Party
Children's Museum Tucson
After hitching a ride with Dos Vidas Car Club, Amal will come upon the Children's Museum Tucson, where a celebration of the city's many cultures will fill the area with music, art and food. Amal will be greeted by young folklórico dancers who will lead her through the festivities, where she will eventually hear the notes of home.
4:30 p.m. – Wildcat Welcome
University of Arizona Mall
At the University of Arizona Tailgate, Little Amal will be greeted by the University's international community. She will be swept along in the festivities around the University of Arizona football game against Oregon State by the band, cheer team and football players.
Presented by Arizona Arts Live. Produced by The Walk Productions in association with Handspring Puppet Company.