The United States and Mexico have a long, intertwined history, with both countries prominently featured in each other’s politics and agendas. The war on drugs, immigration, and trade issues have taxed the relationship over the years. And despite shared geographic, economic, and social connections, the bilateral relationship is subject to strong pressures coming from domestic politics on both sides of the border. What impact will new leadership in both countries have on this crucial partnership?

Check out conference presentations from international, national, and local experts as they discuss the shared history and critical future of the U.S.-Mexico partnership.

Keynote Presentations: The U.S. and Mexico – Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Ambassador of Mexico Martha Bárcena Coqui and former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Jeffrey Davidow

Conversation and Q&A with Ambassadors Bárcena and Davidow

Moderated by Fred de Sam Lazaro, Executive Director of the Under-Told Stories Project and correspondent for the PBS NewsHour

A Shared Border, A Shared Future

Tom Hanson, Diplomat in Residence, University of Minnesota – Duluth

Panel Discussion – Mexican-Minnesotan Contributions to Minnesota’s Culture, Commerce, and Communities

Panelists representing Mexican-Minnesotan leadership in the arts, education, business, and civic life

  • Rodolfo Gutiérrez, Executive Director, HACER
  • Irma Márquez Trapero, Executive Director, LatinoLEAD
  • Maria Cristina Tavera, Artist
  • Rebeca Sedarski, Economic/Workforce Development
  • Moderated by Patricia Lopez, Editorial Writer, Star Tribune

Press Coverage