Background and Relevance
In a climate marked by migration tensions and democratic challenges in North America, Mexican-American leaders and civil organizations have launched the MAPLE (Mexicanos/Mexicoamericanos Promoviendo Liderazgo y Equidad) initiative. This binational effort seeks to defend migrants, amplify the political voice of this community, and establish a common agenda between Mexico and the United States.
Key Players
MAPLE was unveiled at the Raizado Festival, supported by Justice for Migrant Women, Gathering for Justice, Women’s Funding Network, and Mi Familia Vota. These organizations play a crucial role in addressing the growing challenges faced by the Mexican-American community, including rising hate crimes, anti-immigrant policies, and insufficient political representation in both countries.
MAPLE’s Four Pillars
The MAPLE strategy is built on four key pillars:
- Strengthening Democracy: Promote democratic values and principles in both Mexico and the United States.
- Defending and Supporting Migrants: Advocate for the rights of migrants and ensure their well-being.
- Reclaiming Narrative and Cultural Heritage: Counteract misinformation and promote a fair narrative about the Mexican-American community.
- Building Sustainable Political Power: Foster collaboration with institutions and allies in Mexico to create lasting change.
Quotes from Key Figures
During a virtual press conference, Mónica Ramírez, president of Justice for Migrant Women, emphasized the goal to “achieve better conditions for people of Mexican heritage and strengthen collaboration with institutions and allies in Mexico.” Héctor Sánchez Barba, president of Mi Familia Vota, highlighted the urgency of MAPLE by stating, “Mexican identity is under attack due to rising hate crimes, exclusion from public policies, and political extremism.” Carmen Pérez Jordán, president of Gathering for Justice, affirmed that MAPLE “builds bridges between Mexico and the United States,” emphasizing the deep connections between these communities.
Next Steps
Organizers highlighted the shared economic, social, and cultural destiny between Mexico and the United States. They announced plans to conduct a third working trip to Mexico City in September to solidify the strategy and reinforce ties with local leaders and allies.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is MAPLE? MAPLE (Mexicanos/Mexicoamericanos Promoviendo Liderazgo y Equidad) is a binational initiative launched by Mexican-American leaders and civil organizations to defend migrants, amplify the political voice of this community, and establish a common agenda between Mexico and the United States.
- What are MAPLE’s four pillars? The four pillars of MAPLE are strengthening democracy, defending and supporting migrants, reclaiming narrative and cultural heritage, and building sustainable political power.
- Who are the key players supporting MAPLE? The MAPLE initiative is supported by Justice for Migrant Women, Gathering for Justice, Women’s Funding Network, and Mi Familia Vota.
- What are the next steps for MAPLE? Organizers plan to conduct a third working trip to Mexico City in September to solidify the strategy and reinforce ties with local leaders and allies.
