Prior to my trip, I had a general knowledge that Mexican culture, and Mexican women in particular, were very Jp- family-oriented. It is not uncommon for a woman to have several children at a young age. Many women in Mexico were four or five months pregnant and didn’t even know it They take pride in their family and put a huge emphasis on group gatherings with all of their friends and family. I was invited to a “fiesta” with a male coworker where he said the party was open to anyone. I was definitely an outsider going to this party; however, I was never treated like one. When I walked in the women welcomed me and served me food and beverages, always affirming that 1 was taken care of. They were so genuinely warm and pleased that I could be a part their family event. I really felt that they embraced me and my differences as an American woman. Based on experiences like that in America, I knew how much they valued family, but it wasn’t until I was immersed in their culture that I understood it fully.
Having experienced the Mexican women in their own country and having experienced them here in the United States, the biggest difference I have seen is their opportunity In Mexico, women stood on the side of the street 12 hours out of the day selling crafts, knick-knacks, jewelry, etc. hoping to make enough to get by. Even though most Mexican women here are at the poverty level, they have different opportunities than they had in Mexico. For instance, they can hold a full time job with a steady income, own a car, have greater ac cess to health care, and provide education to their children. Having gone on this trip, I understood more than ever the desire to come to the U.S., but I also had a deeper respect for their culture and way of life, and especially their cultural integ rity. So many times people immigrate to a country and as similate into their new surroundings, losing their cultural background, but the Mexicans have kept a good balance of adjust ing to American culture while still maintaining the values and beliefs engrained In them from their Mexican heritage.
