The Coalition: Activating Tucson's community through events, art, localism and sustainability

Local is more than just a buzzword for the Coalition – it’s a mission. Driven to preserve and protect equity, diversity and accessibility in the 4th Avenue District, the team behind the Coalition is powered by local neighborhood folks, business owners, artists and activists.  

We recently caught up with Coalition founding member, Shannon Rice and learned more about the group and their flagship bi-annual event, the "Made in Tucson" market, including :

• The group came together in response to development that was happening in the the 4th Avenue district. With the help of Local First, the Coalition was able to get the first community benefits agreement in Arizona.

• The "Made in Tucson" market started in 2018, as a very small event with 35 exhibitors in the parking lot of Antigone's book store. The market has since grown into a full street closure event taking place twice a year and featuring about 300 artists.

• Using funds generated by their Made in Tucson Markets, the Coalition has been able to rent and maintain a year-round space at 311 E Seventh Street where they hold community events--from book swaps and movie nights to workshops and classes. They make the space available to local organizations and individuals on a sliding scale. 

Be sure to visit the next iteration of the Made in Tucson Market April 7, from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. and learn more about what is on the program at 311 E Seventh Street!