Spaces for Solidarity - Honoring Lorraine Lee

Launched in Spring 2026, the three interconnected components—a panel discussion, a commemorative hike, and a mural project— collectively explored the intersection of environmental stewardship, social justice, and community memory by centering the legacy of Lorraine Lee. With meaningful partnership from Lotus Lounge Student Space, Guerrero Student Space, and Reinas Who Hike, the project team successfully achieved its primary goal of connecting students and community members to environmental justice through place-based programming.  

The programming began with Spaces for Solidarity: Community Panel, providing critical context and dialogue around environmental and social justice issues for 50 participants. After the panel, City of Tucson Council Member, Selina Barajas, shared:  

I feel like here, we are all semillas, we are all seeds of Lorraine ... .you know she planted a lot of seeds in us that now we're blooming, now we’re trying to plant seeds in others. So when I think of Lorraine, I think of the seeds of her planting —xinachtli — the seeds of knowledge.  

The Lorraine Lee Hidden Canyon Trail Commemoration Hike followed, offering an experiential learning opportunity that drew 200 participants! Post-survey data indicated that 96% respondents reported that the program contributed “quite a bit” or “a great deal” to their understanding of environmental justice and community well-being and that the experience inspired them to take action or become more involved in social or environmental justice efforts.  

Finally, 51 participants attended the Artist Engagement events to contribute to the lasting visual tribute that reflects community values and collective memory. The team plans to unveil the mural, led by Jenn Liv in the Lotus Lounge, Fall 2027 semester. 

Altogether, this programming connected a total of 301 people, flowers that continue to bloom in Lorraine Lee’s legacy. As community member, Marisol Flores-Aguierre, shared: 

And so I'm just really honored and touched by all of your stories today, because those flowers continue to bloom, right like we are. We're here and fighting and believing that we can make a difference because of her and because of Lorraine and because of people like her.