Arizona, as told by Latinxs and Native Voices

When uncovering hidden truths about Route 66, we expose a history of exploitation and erasure of Latinx and Native communities. We also amplify stories of resistance and cultivation of joy in racially charged spaces. Their stories are shared here.

"Basically, Flagstaff is fantastic. It's the place to be, the place to live, and even though we have a house in Camp Rudy, this would be the place that I would choose."

"It's because if you don't preserve what you had, you don't know what you have. And so, some of the things that we have now is because of what the old people did for us. I mean that's what they did for us. They showed us how to survive. They showed us how to make ends meet."

"I got to stand up and say to these graduating students, by the power vested in me by the state of Arizona, I now confer on you the degrees. And like I could hardly get the words out because it was so emotional for me...it was because, you know, for my dad, and his family."

"I would say that some of the things that our community really appreciates from us is that we seek to improve those communal ties and we seek to bring Hózhó, which is balance in Navajo. And we want to make sure that they feel comfortable and safe."

Latinx voices on Route 66 reflect migration, resistance, and care. From shepherds to sawmill families, they built informal businesses amid racism to create safe spaces. These vital yet shifting spaces highlight the challenges of preserving Latinx history along the route.

Route 66 brought different economic opportunities to communities, yet many struggled with housing affordability, access to healthcare services, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous people. Gentrification is an alarming fight for Flagstaff natives against universities like NAU.

While Route 66 boosted many economies, Indigenous communities faced erasure through Boarding Schools. South Beaver was a segregated elementary for Latinx students. La Plaza Vieja residents recall efforts to preserve the Catholic school built for Mexican children.

Williams, AZ., is the last town to be bypassed by the construction of Interstate 40. Many communities along Route 66 have created museums and attractions for foreigners to learn about the Route! We encourage those eager to travel the route to explore these smaller towns!

There is more work to be done in relation to Latinx Historic Preservation. Here at Latinos in Heritage Conservation, we work to preserve and amplify Latinx heritage through the Abuelas Project. Click here to explore our Route 66 and Arizona StoryMap!