We want to represent the whole community, to highlight and recognize it, and to create South Phoenix positivity.
Susie and Jacob Hutchins are the admins of South Phoenix Life, on Facebook and Instagram. With over 16 thousand followers on those two platforms, Susie and Jacob promote the glorious vitality of South Phoenix. They want the world to know that South Phoenix is a diverse and thriving part of our city, with a rich history, and a populace that is bursting with energy and creativity.
As they describe it, “Your go-to source for South Phoenix news, food, entertainment, and art—celebrating our community daily! When looking for the best tacos in town, outdoor adventures on the trails, or events, then this page is your go-to for everything South Phoenix.”
For example, recent posts have featured upcoming Halloween events, historic photographs, new and long-standing businesses, new housing opportunities, music and art events, fun runs, and a butterfly release at the Rio Salado.
They have two main goals with their grassroots work—to include the entire community in all its diversity and to inspire the creativity of the community.
As Jacob put it, “We want to represent the whole community, to highlight and recognize it, and to create South Phoenix positivity.”
Along with Chris Garza, owner and operator of The Tiendita on Central Avenue, they are also the organizers and promoters of South Phoenix Sunday, a popular weekly event that encourages residents to visit South Mountain Park or to support participating local businesses to bring out the best in their community.
After a recent South Phoenix Sunday in South Mountain Park, they thanked their community, “Together we created a space that reflects the true spirit of South Phoenix.”
Susie is an Arizona native, while Jacob arrived more recently, but they are both devoted to celebrating South Phoenix, and the beautiful life that it is possible to have here. Susie grew up in the area, documenting it, and along the way, she learned to see problems as opportunities.
That perspective allowed them to be in tune with two major leaders on Central Avenue—Sam Gomez of the Sagrado Galleria and Manny Gomez of Manny’s Tattoo Shop. Both have been very influential in creating traffic and interest along Central Avenue.
Much of Susie and Jacob’s work is focused on Central Avenue, and recently, they have been involved in promoting the value of the South-Central extension of the light rail, not just for South Phoenix residents, but for the broader community.
As Susie says, “South Phoenix is in a powerful position to create events for the whole city.” And from her perspective, the light rail will make it even easier for the rest of the city to experience those events. In addition, both Susie and Jacob are excited about the employment and educational options that the light rail will facilitate for South Phoenix residents.
Be sure to check out their social media pages, or, even better, come to one of their events!
By Liz Warren, SMCC Storytelling Institute Director