"Mexico and the U.S. are bound not only because of the common border, but by a shared culture and history." Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador

BAE Participants at a Historical Border Site

The Border Awareness Experience (BAE) is an educational immersion that takes place on the South western U.S./Mexican Border.  This region is truly a microcosm for global concerns, and a place where critical issues intersect in tangible ways -- economics, human rights, ecology, migration, labor, militarization of the border, health and more.  Participants have the opportunity to engage in discussions with local residents and professionals, receive presentations from topic specialists, and meet with local grass root organizations involved in the issues.   Participants stay with host families in the colonias (low income communities) of the State of New Mexico and the Cd. Juarez, Mexico (optional) -- highlights of the overall experience.

The Women's Intercultural Center partners with the Tonantzin Sisters in Juarez to fully immerse participants in the social life of the Mexican side of the border.  The Tonantzin Sisters maintain women's centers in various colonias in Cd. Juarez.  Participants visit the centers, meet with community members, and stay with families in the colonias.  This is a valuable part of the experience, but it is optional.  Participants may opt to meet some of these people at the border, instead of crossing into Mexico.

The BAE program has been conducted by the Center since 1993, as our location on the border provides a unique opportunity for learning about and addressing social issues.