In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum welcomes newly elected Tucson City Council Ward 5 member Selina Barajas, a proud Tucsonan. As a City Council member, Barajas helps shape local policies, advocate for city services, and make decisions that directly impact neighborhoods, families, and quality of life.

Barajas shares her deep connection to the community—having grown up on the south side and attended Elvira Elementary in Ward 5—and reflects on what it means to now serve the very neighborhoods that shaped her. She speaks passionately about uplifting families, strengthening partnerships, and bringing new opportunities to the ward she calls home.

Selina also honors two women who were instrumental in her journey, sharing:

“I want to thank my incredible co-chairs, Eva Carrillo Dong and Anna Sanchez. Eva, the longest-serving member of the SUSD Governing Board, has given decades of steady, principled leadership to our community. Anna, through her many years as a public librarian and her constant support on the Sunnyside football and wrestling sidelines, has uplifted countless families across our neighborhoods. I am grateful to both of them for walking alongside me every step of the way; canvassing Ward 5, helping me win, and continuing to support me as I serve. Their dedication and heart embody the very best of our City and south side community.”

Together, Superintendent Gastelum and Council Member Barajas explore the future of Ward 5, the importance of community leadership, and the shared commitment to building a stronger, more connected Sunnyside.