An Inspired Life Motivates US-Mexico Relations

Guest Blogger: Michael Hyatt, Chair-Board of Directors, Sister Cities International

On December 30, 2009 Bobby Salcedo from El Monte, CA and a leader within the US Mexico sister city network was killed during a random act of violence while vacationing in Mexico. Bobby's life and work were celebrated at the US Mexico Sister City Association (USMSCA) Conference this past weekend in Cathedral City, CA. While some may shy away from relationships with Mexico in wake of such violence, members of the USMSCA called for an increase in the number of partnerships and exchanges with Mexico. The Association recognized that safety is a concern and needs to be addressed, but we must not live in fear.

I, along with Laura Giroux, attended the US Mexico Sister City Association conference this past weekend in Cathedral City, CA. Having formalized our partnership last year, we began to discuss ways to work together. We are working on a track for our 2010 conference which will focus on Mexico. We hope this will attract USMSCA members to attend as well as invite their partners in Mexico. I have also asked Gil Garcia to serve on our Mexico Task Force with its goals of increasing our relationships in Mexico as well as the level of activity.

A foundation in Bobby's honor for scholarships is being established in his name. I will have details on the Sister Cities International website when the foundation is complete. Bobby's death only highlights the need for our work to continue in Mexico and provide assistance to our neighbors.

If your city has one of our 151 partnerships in Mexico, please invite them to the conference in Albuquerque.