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Mexico Ministry Trip News
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Piedras Negras, Mexico is in the state of Coahuila, one of the 32 states in Mexico. It is located directly across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas which is about 150 miles southwest of San Antonio. Piedras Negras is called “La Puerta de Mexico” (Mexico’s Door) because of the flow of commercial traffic and people that pass through its borders.
Government: Mexico has been an independent republic since 1917. Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821.
Religion: Approximately 90% of the people are of the Roman Catholic faith. The pastors association in Piedras Negras believes that the presence of evangelical Christians is around 50% to 55% in the city.
Population in 2006: 280,000 (and growing)
Education: A 6th grade education is required by law; however, it is not enforced or checked. Most individuals living within the city limits complete the 9th grade. On the outskirts of the city and in the more rural areas the average education is 4-6th grade.
Employment Opportunities: (Exchange rates fluctuate daily therefore wages are approximate)
* Minimum wage is $4.50 a day. Self-employed construction workers can earn average of $200-$300 a month.
* Factories are good employment opportunities for those with minimal education.
* Factory workers work 8-10 hours a day and earn an average of $380 to $430 a month and receive health care benefits, social security, and can establish credit to purchase a government home.
* Those with a technical, trade or college education can earn between $450 and $1000 a month.
Problems Facing Piedras:
* Poverty levels are high
* Drug use and drug trafficking
* Children born out of wedlock
* Vagrancy
* Inadequate health care, but improving
Attitudes of the People: Mexicans value friendship, humor, honesty and hard work. Power, wealth, family name, and education are all measures of social status. Mexicans traditionally have had a relaxed attitude toward time, although this is changing in urban areas. Generally, they believe individuals are more important than schedules; people will stop to talk to unexpected visitors, regardless of other commitments.
Good Stuff about Piedras: Piedras Negras is one of the most successful border cities in Mexico. It has won “beautiful city of the year” several times. This is a prestigious award in Mexico. The winner of the award must meet several criteria, such as having a low crime rate, a low unemployment rate, as well as the maintenance of a clean aesthetically pleasing city.
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