Invest in the Arts to Share Traditions

We are thankful to have leaders in our community that recognize the importance of arts and culture to the enrichment of our lives. With their support, we are able to offer free festivals, activities, and arts education programs. Tommy and Elvira Espinoza of Raza Development Fund have been long time supporters of the arts in Arizona and the work we do at Cultural Coalition. Through their organization, they have supported our Dia de los Muertos festival since 2014. We feel it is important to celebrate those who celebrate the arts, and want to share why supporting the arts is so important to our community.

Tommy discovered his love for the arts at a young age. He remembers, “Growing up in the Barrio, I learned about our culture and traditions. Art has always been a very important way to learn about our own history. I have always loved our art, since I was in high school.”

Raza Development Fund (RDF) was founded 20 years ago as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and a support organization to UnidosUS. True to their founding principles of service to the poor, dignity of the human person and solid business management, their mission is to invest capital and create financial solutions to increase opportunities for Latino and poor families across the country. When asked why RDF also chooses to invest in the arts, the Espinoza’s declared, “Art is a beautiful way to educate our kids about our culture and traditions. It’s very important to support our local artists, our storytellers.”

As an annual supporter of Cultural Coalition’s festivals, RDF supports our mission and dedication to work with our community, educating and promoting our indigenous artists. As they explained, “in a very colorful, creative, beautiful and unique way,” that draws “thousands of people to your [Cultural Coalition’s] events to enjoy music, food but, more importantly, to learn about our history through your presentations and storytelling.”

We know that everyone has the power to get involved or support the arts, in a way that feels right for them. As philanthropists and supporters of the arts in our community, Tommy and Elvira shared the advice, “Get out of the box and embrace groups like Cultural Coalition to celebrate the Latino culture at its highest levels.

We are truly grateful to have the continued support of Elvira and Tommy Espinoza, and Raza Development Fund. Learn more about how Raza Development Fund is making positive impacts throughout Arizona for the arts, education, and more!