Mexican Institute Offers Special Glb Summer Programs

 Called “the city of eternal spring,” Cuernavaca has been known for several decades as a center for the study of Spanish. CETLALIC was founded in 1987 as an alternative school, integrating intensive study of Spanish language with experiential cultural learning and analysis of current issues with grassroots organizations and others who are actively involved in their society.

 The Spanish language program is demanding, but in a friendly atmosphere. Paulo Freire’s methodology is applied to the teaching of Spanish as a second language and students are expected to contribute their insights and ask the questions necessary for critical analysis. Our teachers are native speakers with professional training and extensive experience. Classes are limited to five students.

 Every morning, there are three hours of intensive language instruction from 9 to 12, followed by a “practica” session from 12 to 2, in which students participate in round table discussions on a variety of national and international topics. Cultural activities are also offered throughout a week and include excursions, visits with native speakers from Mexico and elsewhere in Latin America, videos, and participation in local fiestas and other cultural events. CETLALIC is accredited by the Ministry of Public Education (State of Morelos, Mexico).

 Living with a Mexican family is an integral part of the program. It provides a unique experience to learn about the people, their food and their customs, as well as an incomparable opportunity for students to practice and refine their Spanish language abilities. We are proud to offer homestay options in which our gay, lesbian, and bisexual students can feel comfortable. There are families which are straight but welcoming of g/l/b students, as well as gay or lesbian couples who receive students in their homes.

 CETLALIC is small and the staff is able to attend to the needs of each student. The goal is to promote dialogue between Mexico and Central America and the people of other cultures and, in order to reach that goal, we make the experience of every participant our concern. They welcome all students irrespective of nationality, ethnic origin, race, gender, sexual preference, age, etc.

 They offer small, intensive classes at all levels, year-round, as well as several Special Programs every year, each focused on a particular issue or area of interest, which often include travel in the region.

 1998 Special Programs:

 IN/VISIBILITY: LESBIAN LIVES IN MEXICO (June 26 - July 17, 1998) A 3 week program that includes intensive Spanish classes and a variety of cultural/educational activities (such as trips, speakers, discussions, encounters with local groups and artists, videos, etc.) and a lesbian homestay.

 COMING OUT: THE GAY EXPERIENCE IN MEXICO (June 7-26, 1998) A 3 week program that includes intensive Spanish classes and a variety of cultural/educational activities (such as trips, speakers, discussions, encounters with local groups and artists, videos, etc.) and a gay homestay.

CETLALIC Escuela Alternativa de Español/ Alternative Language School, Apdo. Postal 1-201, C.P. 62000, Cuernavaca, Morelos MEXICO; tel: (52) (73) 17-08-50; fax: 13-26-37; E-mail: cetlalic@mail.giga.com; Web: http://www.giga.com/~cetlalic