We arrived late yesterday after a long day on the road in three vans that left at three different times. It was great, then, to finally all be together this morning at Centro Romero including Chris McCoy who joined us from UC San Diego.
The Center is wonderful. It appears to be a house that was renovated into a large meeting space and offices. It sits in the middle of a cozy neighborhood with a view of the hills of Tijuana less than 3 miles away. Our host Carlos and "animator" Mari have made us feel very welcome. Luis and his wife (I will get her name tomorrow) prepared amazing meals for us so far. Tonight we ate empanadas, rice, baked chicken and apple flan. Yum! We spent the day reviewing some of the basic information about the history and realities of the border. My first impressions are feelings of sadness and awe and outrage and the confluence of forces working in the lives of Mexican families to force them to be basically slave labor in sweat shops or risk their lives for a dangerous border crossing through the desert--all to support US consumption and the profits of transnational corporations. I am also incredibly impressed with this group. They are all bright, articulate, reflective and are bringing their whole selves to this experience. What a blessing to be here!
Adam
Glad to hear that you made it safely. Thanks for your initial impressions. Sounds like you are already getting deeply involved in the issues.
ReplyDeleteIs there no evidence of the drug cartel wars? NPR has reported that the drug lords are wreaking havoc in the entire country of Mexico and the border areas are greatly affected by the violence.
ReplyDeleteI will keep your group in my prayers. "God is our refuge and strength, a present help in time of trouble...I will not fear." Psalm 46