Border Vigil Cofounder Mike Garcia Receives Esteemed Ohtli Award
(Press Release)
EAGLE PASS, TEXAS – The Border Vigil of Eagle Pass proudly announces that Mike Garcia has been awarded the prestigious Ohtli Award (Reconocimiento Ohtli) by the Institute of Mexicans Living Abroad (IME), a division of the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ohtli Award honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to strengthening relations with the Mexican community abroad and enhancing the well-being of Mexicans outside Mexico. Mike Garcia’s dedication to fostering cooperation and understanding between the U.S. and Mexico, especially in the Eagle Pass region, has earned him this esteemed accolade.
Garcia, a co-founder of the Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, has been a pivotal figure in promoting cultural exchange, economic development, and humanitarian efforts between the two countries. Over the past 40 years, he has donated food, supplies, and aid to those in need in Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras, and advocated for the compassionate treatment of border communities and of migrants.
In 2023, Garcia played a crucial role in establishing the Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, highlighting the human impact of harsh deterrence policies on border communities. His leadership has brought attention to the challenges faced by people living on both sides of the border.
Garcia’s previous accolades include being named Eagle Pass Citizen of the Year in 1988, serving as past president of the Eagle Pass Chamber of Commerce, and holding roles such as Lieutenant Governor and President of the Eagle Pass Optimist Club and President of the International Good Neighbor Council of Eagle Pass & Piedras Negras. He has also been a board member of United Medical Centers.
He has been married to Joan Garcia for 52 years and has nine grandchildren from his four children: Amerika Garcia Grewal (an immigrant to Fiji), Rebeka Garcia Cook, Lia Garcia Halpin (an immigrant to Vietnam), and Michal Garcia (now a Canadian citizen).
Pastor Javier Leyva of First United Methodist Church of Eagle Pass and Border Vigil cofounder says “Mike is very much involved in the community. Immigration and justice for all. I am honored to know Mike Garcia. Thank you for all you do”
Jessie Fuentes, board member of the Eagle Pass Border Coalition, praises Garcia, saying, “Mike Garcia has been a true Amigo to everyone in Eagle Pass Texas and our sister city of Piedras Negras. He has been a strong advocate against the brutality and cruelty being committed against our Rio Grande and the immigrants who have crossed the river. His sincere compassion & empathy are always on display, especially when it comes to being faithfully there for the Border Vigil. Mike always has time to bring attention to the needless loss of Life in and around the Rio Grande and our border community due to the militarization of our shared riverfront. For decades Mike has always been that go-to gentleman that will listen, advise, and mentor a person in need.”
Bob Libal of Human Rights Watch adds, “From the first moment you meet him, it is clear that Mike Garcia exemplifies the generosity and kindness that this world needs more of. His pride in the border on both sides of the river and his care for people, friends and strangers alike, are an example for us all.”
Jose Corpus, another board member of the Eagle Pass Border Coalition, commends Garcia’s unwavering dedication: “For over four decades, Mike Garcia has served our local chamber of commerce and advocated for people on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. His endless commitment to community and justice stands as a beacon of integrity and empathy and inspires us all.”
The Ohtli Award reflects the Mexican government’s gratitude for Garcia’s contributions to the Mexican-American community. We congratulate Mike on this well-deserved honor and look forward to his continued leadership in strengthening binational relationships.
About the Border Vigil of Eagle Pass
The Border Vigil of Eagle Pass is a local community group that holds a monthly Memorial Vigil/Vigilia Memorial in remembrance of the needless loss of life in the borderlands. Their vision is to create a space of healing, remembrance, and solidarity for the families and communities affected by a militarized border and inhumane approaches to controlling migration. The organization’s mission is to raise awareness and foster dialogue about the root causes and consequences of migration, as well as to advocate for a humane and compassionate approach to border safety and immigration policy.
