Arizona Illustrated: Camp Naco, Compassion & Story Hour

This week on Arizona Illustrated…Camp Naco, a historic miliary base built for African American Buffalo Soldiers, gets national attention and renewed investment; international artist Hanoch Piven teaches collage and compassion in Tucson workshops and we look into the rising threats of violence against Drag Story Hour events in Arizona.

Camp Naco: Building on History
Camp Naco, on the US-Mexico border near Bisbee southeast of Tucson, was built for African American “Buffalo Soldiers” in the early 1900s. After decades of neglect and abandonment, the facility is getting new-found local, state, and national attention along with a multi-million-dollar investment. The goal is to restore the buildings and bring them back to life with different services and programs to benefit the bi-national, bi-cultural surrounding community as well as visitors from other cities, states and countries.

Hanoch Piven – Art as Resistance
Renowned artist Hanoch Piven, who turns everyday objects into expressive portraits. After leading workshops in Tucson, Piven shares how his art bridges divides and fosters empathy, drawing on his work with Palestinians and Israelis after recent conflict.

Under Fire: The Rising Threats Against Drag Story Hour Events
Escalating threats faced by Drag Story Hour events across the country highlight how political rhetoric and messaging contribute to an environment of hostility and fear. The impact of anti-drag and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment on these storytelling sessions leave lasting impacts, forcing them to consider community safety as their lives go under attack. Their fight for inclusivity and reading literacy depicts how the resilience of those who stand against intimidation can preserve a space for creativity and acceptance in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
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