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Mexico Lindo y Querido - My Sweet Beloved Mexico
By Anahi Burciaga
As I sat in Juanita’s office at NWACC, the words about the Mexico Study Abroad program seemed to echo in my mind. Excitement bubbled up within me, but so did uncertainty. Could I really go?
The internal dialogue started at once:
"Can I go? I want to go!"
"No, Anahi, you cannot go. You’re DACAmented, remember? It's too risky."
Mexico, my beautiful and beloved home country, welcomed me back through this program. The opportunity to return had been a distant dream for over twenty years, and NWACC offered the chance to make it a reality.
Our journey began in CDMX, where the vibrant streets and the imposing Ángel de la Independencia welcomed us. Standing before that historical landmark, I felt a surge of emotions. I was finally home—it felt surreal yet undeniably right.
One of the most profound moments was listening to our guide Jaime at the Palacio de Bellas Artes - Palace of the Fine Arts. As he shared stories of the art and its historical significance, I felt a deep connection to my roots and ancestors. I realized I came from a lineage of resilient, brilliant individuals—warriors who faced challenges with grace and strength. It was a moment of profound self-recognition and acceptance.
The program took us to extraordinary places I had only dreamed of, like El Zócalo, La Catedral, the Museo Nacional de Antropología, the Basilica de Guadalupe, and more. The Museo Banco de México provided an engaging look into the history of the Mexican peso. Visiting Frida Kahlo’s Museum and stepping into the house where she had grown up, I felt as though Frida’s spirit was still alive within the walls. Teotihuacan, with its magical pyramids, was amongst my favorite places we visited. If these ancient structures could speak, they would tell tales of a vibrant civilization that flourished long before us. Standing before these awe-inspiring creations, I was once again reminded of the extraordinary achievements of my ancestors.
Casa Tochan, a migrant shelter in CDMX, was an emotional experience. Translated as "Our House" in Náhuatl, it provides refuge for men from around the world seeking asylum. We were welcomed with delicious arepas and the open hearts of migrants eager to share their untold stories. Hearing the journey of a father with his twelve and nineteen-year-old sons was a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength needed in the face of adversity. Their stories illuminated the harsh realities of migration, from the forced departure from their home countries to the discrimination and human rights violations they faced.
Traveling from CDMX to Puebla was a journey filled with breathtaking scenery that words cannot capture. Upon arrival at La Preciosita, we were warmly welcomed by our host mothers, who embraced us as a family—a true reflection of the typical Mexican culture. Unknowingly, another transformative experience awaited. Our interactions with the local community and our host mothers were incredibly moving. They shared stories of their families, whom had migrated to the U.S. Their resilience and warmth resonated deeply with me, closing emotional cycles I hadn’t even realized were open. This was both moving and enlightening, offering new perspectives and connections that I will forever carry with me.
Our final stop was Oaxaca, and just recalling it sends chills down my spine. It felt as though we were in the right place at the right time. The city was amid its Guelaguetza celebration, an annual indigenous cultural event filled with traditional dances, food, costumes, parades, and performances. Everywhere I turned, there was a new celebration unfolding. It was an incredible experience to immerse ourselves in Oaxaca's rich traditions, from taking part in a chocolate cooking class to reliving a childhood memory with the procession of Our Lady del Carmen. This was the perfect ending to our study abroad in Mexico.
Our visit to Oaxaca also included meaningful interactions with local organizations. We met with Drew from Collin A.C., who provides support to migrants traveling through Oaxaca.
Additionally, we connected with Lety from PAM (Parteras Apoyando Migrantes), a network of midwives that offers free prenatal and postnatal care to migrant women and babies. Our group split up to aid both organizations, helping with tasks like packing hygiene bags, distributing them, and collecting data. Listening to the stories of migrant families from South and Central America was deeply moving. Despite their tired and restless faces, their determination to pursue a better life was persistent.
Each stop—CDMX, Puebla/Cholula, Oaxaca—brought new insights and connections. The study abroad program wasn’t just about academics; it was about reclaiming a part of myself and embracing my heritage. It taught me that despite the challenges and uncertainties, my identity and my story were worth celebrating.
As I boarded the plane back to the U.S., I carried with me not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose and a grateful heart. The journey had been more than a study abroad experience; it had been a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Mexico, my homeland, welcomed me back, and I returned home ready to honor and embrace my heritage, traditions, and roots more than ever before.
I am forever grateful to everyone involved in putting this program together—Juanita Franklin, Codie Ryan, Sevin Gallo, Léo Tucker, Octavio Gonzalez Nuñez, and most importantly, the anonymous donor who funded our trip. Your contributions have made an immeasurable impact, not only in my life but in the lives of everyone who took part in this program. Words cannot fully express the depth of my gratitude.
If you want to learn more about the organizations, we visited click here.
Casa Tochan - Inicio | Casa Tochan
Collin A.C - https://oaxacamigrantsassistance.org/