Document Actions

Oaxaca, Mexico - Digital Culture

Location: Oaxaca, Mexico
Special Theme:
 Technology Education
Length: 8 Weeks
Dates: June 8, 2010 - August 3, 2010
Restrictions:
 A high level of Spanish proficiency and basic technology skills are preferred

Project Specific Activities:

  • Promote and preserve local culture through the use of digital cameras, video cameras, web sites, blogs, etc.
  • Train yough on basic computer skills, introduction to the internet and how to operate digital cameras
  • Collaborate with community members on the planning and implementation of a Community-based initiative (CBI).

Project Area:

Established in the late 15th century as an Aztec stronghold and occupied by Spanish conquistadors in 1521, Oaxaca today is a colorful, modern city of a half-million inhabitants, the capital of the state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico, and a cultural center of extraordinary ethnic diversity. Volunteers will stay in partnerships of two or three in rural communities 30 minutes to three hours from Oaxaca City, where they will have a unique chance to explore the fascinating and complex realities of Mexican culture, politics and economy while living with a local host family. The area is known for delicious food, including mole dishes.

In spite of its cultural wealth, Oaxaca remains the second poorest state in Mexico, with malnutrition, illiteracy, and inadequate medical care affecting large segments of the population.  Many community-members, particularly men and young people, have emigrated to Northern Mexico or the United States in search of alternative means of survival.  This exodus can place further strain on those left behind, commonly women and children.

Project History:

For 28 years, AMIGOS has been building strong ties with communities and public service organizations in the state of Oaxaca, México. From 1979 until 2002, there was a strong collaboration with Oaxaca's State Health Services to build latrines and fuel-efficient stoves. In 2003, the projects began to focus on youth education, and partnerships were forged with two nutrition-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Un Kilo de Ayuda and Puente a la Salud Comunitaria.  Additionally, in 2003 a culture-focused program was piloted, which came to include a technology component in 2005.  In 2008 and 2009, AMIGOS continued building upon the digital culture program, and we are thrilled to return this summer.

Partner Agencies:

Instituto Estatal de Educación Publica de Oaxaca (IEEPO)

Further Actions:
AMIGOS Voices

“After three summers with AMIGOS, I fell in love with Latin America and spent the majority of my professional career involved in either the US Hispanic community or directly in Latin America. AMIGOS ignited a desire to experience the world of other cultures.”

– Peter Benziger, President, Lighthouse Marketing Services