Las Vegas, NM - At the request of Patricia Pinzón Sánchez, the Mexican Consul based in Albuquerque—and with the support of City Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey—the City of Las Vegas governing body convened alongside key community organizations this morning to discuss continued collaboration with the Mexican Consulate.

Consul Pinzón Sánchez brings a wealth of experience to her role, with over 20 years working with the Mexican Foreign Service and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving in Mexico City, California, Arizona, and now New Mexico.

This roundtable meeting highlighted shared concerns and opportunities, particularly surrounding the experiences of immigrants and the growing fears within the community due to evolving federal policies. Participants unanimously expressed concern over the fear many undocumented individuals face, as well as the increasing threats to cultural identity.

Representatives from the local university and community college shared insights about their diverse student populations, which include individuals from many different nationalities. These institutions emphasized the importance of supporting all students, regardless of their immigration status, and highlighted ongoing efforts to create safe, inclusive learning environments.

Consul Sánchez expressed her appreciation for New Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry, noting the state’s incredible diversity, including its many Native communities. “There are so many differences, but also so many similarities from our culture and native cultures as well,” she remarked. “We have had the pleasure to be present between exchanges from native communities here and native communities in Mexico and it’s impressive to know how similar we are at the end. I am grateful to be learning everyday from this amazing state and very happy to be here with you in Las Vegas.”

The Consulate of Mexico in Albuquerque, which serves 24 counties in New Mexico and 38 counties in Northwest Texas, is far more than a government office. It is a bridge between cultures, a source of critical support for Mexican nationals, and an active partner in community-building efforts.

The Albuquerque Consulate provides a wide range of services consistent across the network of 53 Mexican consulates in the U.S., including:

• A 24/7 hotline (520-623-7874) to support Mexican nationals in emergencies, including legal, immigration, or mental health crises.

• Direct assistance for those detained or incarcerated.

• Guidance on dual nationality, passports, legal documentation, and powers of attorney.

• Legal support for immigration, human rights, civil and criminal issues, family matters, and victims of crimes — often at no cost through pro bono or remote services.

• Strong communication ties with local churches, hospitals, and community organizations.

• Educational initiatives like "Know Your Rights" forums and scholarship programs supporting first-time university students of Mexican origin. The Consulate plans to award $1,000 scholarships in partnership with a future 501(c)(3) fundraising initiative, with all universities encouraged to apply.

  
  

The Consulate emphasized its commitment to increasing its presence in Las Vegas and to working closely with the local community to ensure no Mexican national feels isolated or without support.

For assistance, please contact the Consulate at 520-270-7009 or their 24/7 emergency hotline at 520-623-7874.

Attendees included: Mexican Consul Patricia Pinzón Sánchez, Iván Villanueva (Protection Department & Legal Affairs), Mariana Sanchez-Cuatzitl (Innovation & Community Engagement) Mayor David Romero, Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey, Councilman Marvin Martinez, Police Chief Caleb Marquez, Mayor Liaison/Public Information Officer Amanda Salas, LCC President Dr. Carol Linder, NMHU President Dr. Neil Woolf, NMHU Chief of Staff Dr. Brandon Kemper, Dr. Eric Romero (Assistant Professor, Languages and Culture and Interim Director of Native American Hispano Studies at NMHU), and Father Rob Yaksich of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish.

Note: San Miguel County officials were unable to attend due to a prior commitment.