Recognizing the evolving demographic of our state, AZGFD has increased engagement with communities that, historically, have not been served. Innovation is fundamental in creating a connection with underserved populations, resulting in an emotional and sincere investment in wildlife conservation and stewardship derived from a sense of belonging and inclusion.
In 2020, AZGFD took an important step with its inclusivity efforts by creating the Department’s official name in Spanish. Recognizing the need to communicate with Spanish-speaking communities across the state, AZGFD also hired its first Spanish-speaking Public Information Officer (PIO). Since the implementation of these changes in May 2020, dozens of stories about AZGFD and our conservation work has appeared in various Spanish-language media outlets—including publications in Mexico.
Telemundo Arizona’s Acceso Total, an entertainment TV program hosted by Priscilla Torres, reports on local, community-oriented stories that engage the entire family. Recently, Acceso Total did two stories with AZGFD, one about the Department’s fish hatcheries and the other was a full program about learning how to fish and cooking your catch.
The support from our Spanish-language media partners is imperative for wildlife conservation and protection. These vital partnerships are allowing AZGFD to successfully build a trusting relationship with Arizona’s Spanish-speaking communities.