Understanding Mexico

Let's be honest - most of us know very little about our southern neighbors in Mexico.  We may have been to Tiajuana (which isn't very representative), seen the news clips of illegal immigrants trying to enter our country, or maybe know a few workers in our community.

You probably don't know that Mexico is made up of some 300 people groups or language groups.  Each group has its own distinct language and history that stretches back generations.  The common link among the groups were the Spanish conquers who dominated and pillaged the country centuries ago.  Of the people or language groups, only 150 are recognized by the Mexican government and provided assistance in teaching the groups language and history. Many groups speak little or no Spanish, adding to the complex nature of the country.

Another important difference in Mexico is the nature of their government and legal system.  While the country practices democracy, with elected leaders on all levels of government, government itself was originally developed to "protect the rich and powerful", rather than the individual.

The legal system is based on "The Napoleonic Code" which states that an individual is "guilty until proven innocent", another major difference that plays against the individual.

Add to these factors a poor infrastructure and you have a country rich in resources but lacking in support for its people and culture.