Paula, amalia, gloria, and liliana holguin

Rarámuri Tribal Members

Ciudad Juárez, Mexico

11/4/2022

Passports in hand, Semester in the West students gathered on the U.S side of Paso del Norte, one of four border crossings in El Paso. We walked across the pedestrian bridge, over the border wall and channelized Rio Grande into Juárez, Mexico. We were honored to meet with a three generational Rarámuri family. The Rarámuri, meaning “light footed ones” are indigenous peoples native to the Sierra Madras.

Some students enjoyed the opportunity to practice their Spanish and talk with our guests as we walked the streets of Juarez. Rarámuri culture is based on sharing and reciprocity. Our group experienced just that. They brought handmade baskets made of Palma, clothing and instruments to pass around and share with us. Rarámuri women wear brightly colored, homemade dresses. Triangle patterns represent the mountains, and lines represent the paths they walk in the desert. Students had an opportunity to try Pinole: a fermented corn protein drink extremely important to sustain life in the Sierra. People will often go days just drinking this highly nutritious drink when food is scarce.

After parting ways, we crossed back into the United States. Over the bridge and smoothly through the Port of Entry; thoughts of power dynamics and privilege in our heads as we walked back into El Paso.

By Abigael Carron