How Tucson Helped Me Connect With My Mexican American Identity

How Tucson Helped Me Connect With My Mexican American Identity

When I was 17, I used to skip school. Instead of turning left toward school, I would head right to Saguaro National Park. I’d roll down my windows, feel the dry desert air, and cruise along the eight-mile Cactus Forest Drive. Somewhere around mile six or seven, I’d pull off at Javelina Rocks, climb the giant rock formations, and find a spot that fit my body like it was carved just for me.  Back then, I thought I was just a girl needing an escape…