The name Tucson comes from the O’odham Ctuk Son meaning the base of the black hill, referring to Sentinel Peak. It's represented by the black triangle which expresses its profile. Red and gold represent our rich Hispanic heritage. White is the color of the saguaro flower showing our love for the Sonoran desert. The copper star is from the Arizona flag which embraces the state and our place in it.

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The flag works because it follows the five rules of flag design as described by Ted Kaye.

1. Keep it simple. A child should be able to draw it from memory.

2. Use meaningful symbolism.

3. Use two to three basic colors.

4. Do not use lettering or seals.

5. Be distinctive or related to other flags.

 

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