Below is a recap of our direct experiences and interactions with over 250 women in the Puerto Penasco community during our three-week trip. This should not be taken as a generalization for all Mexican women or Mexican society as a whole.

Why Puerto Penasco, Sonora Mexico?

During one of our medical trips in association with Naturopaths Without Borders, we met many wholehearted and intelligent women. During the medical visits, we were surprised by the number of obstacles these women faced daily and yet, were unfazed by these challenges. Inspired by their strength and perseverance, we wanted to learn more about them and use their wisdom to inspire other women around the world.

What happened while we were there?

During our three weeks in Puerto Penasco we interacted with over 250 women through wellness workshops, women discussion groups, interviews, presentations, and individual nutrition consults. It was during these interactions the women shared their experiences about what it means to be a woman in Puerto Penasco and how that has shaped them.

To capture the depth and complexities of their lives we met with a broad range of women aging from 15-80 years at a variety of environments (work, school, home, spiritual centers, etc.) to better understand who they are and how they relate to their society, community, and family.

What did we learn?

In Puerto Penasco, it is common that many women are victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and rape. Despite how tragically common these cases are, there is little support and work being done to stop this behavior. Consistent trauma has become a normality in their society and has encouraged the suppression of women.

In conducted interviews, drug trafficking and related violence was a consistent theme having a devastating impact on families and the community. Enticed by the profitability of drug trafficking, many saw it as an opportunity to financially support their families despite the apparent dangers. Over time, this has led many children to be raised by extended family members and a greater need for community resources on an already burdened system.

A lack of resources and access to food, healthcare, and transportation was a common source of stress and anxiety for many women. The difficulty was expressed in transporting kids to school, receiving proper medical treatment and having enough food on the table.

Women lean on spirituality and religion for healing, guidance and multigenerational support. Faith welcomed new perspectives for many to view their traumas in a new light and allowed them freedom from their pain. Generosity is second nature for many of these women and it weaves the community together.

What’s Next?

Currently, we are post-production of the Project Mujeres film and we hope to release it in Summer 2020.

We are also exploring our next project location. People from countries such as India, Nepal, and Panama are reaching out to us for future involvement with them.

Want us to come to your community? Write to us and tell us why the Mariposa Sisters should come to your community.

Together we can create a stronger international sisterhood.