The week long trip to Mexico, with stops in Mexico City and Oaxaca , Mexico , was more than just a field trip for the 28 leaders from Duplin, Sampson and Wayne Counties . This trip was the culmination of nearly one year's worth of meetings, seminars and study programs provided by The Center for International Understanding. The Center's Latino Initiative strives to provide North Carolina policy leaders with an opportunity to study and learn about the culture of our Mexican Neighbors and develop a more comprehensive understanding of the issues associated with immigration integration.

North Carolina has the fastest growing Latino population in the United States , and most of the state's newest residents are from Mexico . Programs that include travel opportunities such as this one provide NC leaders with resources and information to create practical solutions for successfully incorporating immigrants into their communities. Between 1998 and 2003, 182 policy leaders have participated in the Latino Initiative. They included legislators, city and county elected officials, Latino leaders, law enforcement officers, educators and leaders in health, housing, agriculture, law, business and communities of faith.

Traveling to various locations within Mexico such as Santa Ana del Valle, Santa Maria del Tule, San Miguel del Valle and Monte Alban provided the group with a snapshot of the life and culture in Mexico.

The group's experiences varied from individual presentations; seminars on culture and finance; tours of schools; learning and seeing micro enterprise programs at work; individual family visitations and discussions; meetings with Universidad Presidents, Village Mayors and Councils; tours of museums and art centers; breakfast, lunch and dinner with local residents and leaders; and group discussions which often included local community leaders as well as citizens who have migrated.

Points of interests such as schools, museums, cathedrals, healthcare facilities and ancient ruins were all included in this overwhelming “visit” which merely opened the door to the numerous possibilities and challenges that the leaders in both countries face today.

The work of these leaders is just beginning. They will be working to incorporate their new knowledge into their professional responsibilities and programs and sharing their experiences with community organizations throughout the three counties.

Group listening to presentation at the Juan Diego Community Center, Chalco	Group with Juan Diego Staff and Representatives
Chris Martin, Human Resource Director-Mt Olive Pickle Company, getting to know a younger citizen of Mexico	Some of the Duplin constituents gathering in the National Cathedral Courtyard. Building in background with flag is the Presidential Palace.
Mexcian artifact found during excavation process	A group of Duplin representatives in Mexico City
Rep. Russel Tucker along with Rep. Larry Bell being welcomed by the Mayor of Oaxaca	Ed Emory, Cooperative Extension Director, checks on things back at the office
Local woman making tortillas from blue corn	Fred Eldridge, Duplin County Manager, tours organic farmer's market with his host, Mr. Cruz Clemente