On day 4 of the road trip, we decided to travel to a state where there are fewer than 10,000 total Latino residents… Maine.
Being the U.S.’s “whitest” state by having nearly 97% of the entire population registered as Caucasian, we wanted to hear from some of the folks who make up merely 1% of the state’s total population.
Through our researching efforts, we came across a gentleman by the name of Juan Perez-Febles, a Cuban-American and Maine resident who also works at the Division of Immigrant and Migrant Services in Portland, ME.
Through speaking with Mr. Febles, we found out that although Latinos are small in numbers, the few who reside here, typically enjoy it. Febles went on to explain how Maine is a great place for Latinos given its plethora of job opportunities, the low crime rates and violence, and great educational system. Additionally, he spoke to the fact that residents in Maine have a relatively unbiased opinion towards Latinos who live here. He explained that the negative stigmas here are not as prominent as they are in other major cities, and “Mainers” here are generally welcoming of new cultures.After our interview with Mr. Febles, we decided to go and check out some of the sites Maine had to offer. We ended up at the beautiful Old Orchard Beach, approximately an hour away from Portland. Old Orchard Beach had everything you could ask for: a clean and peaceful environment, friendly people and enough room to enjoy the time there. 
As we finished the day we realized that although Maine may not have a large percentage of Latinos, it is a very warm and inviting place, full of things to do and can offer Latinos a certain level of comfort you do not typically get in many other places.
Next stop DC, dale!
About Lance Ríos
On behalf of the American Latino Heritage Fund, awesome posts and great job to Being Latino! So much to discover, right? We’re loving these daily updates and have the deepest appreciation for what you’re doing for #LatinoHeritage. And bringing Latino History to light to our community. Aqui estamos para servir.
Oye, ten cuidado because they might mistake yous for a bunch of Canadians trying to sneak across the border.
Love it!
Mid-coast Maine summers has been our family’s tradition for a decade. Nothing like simple pleasures like a beautiful lake house, swimming, sailing, enjoying fresh catch, fresh air…trips to shaws fish market, renys, round top ice cream, camden shopping,etc. our seasonal and year round resident friendds have always been friendly to our family. We are always welcomed by our neighbors when we are here. Our kids always look forward to outdoor mass in the woods at saint pat’s, a wonderful faith community that prides itself on welcoming its summer seasonal members and offers opportunities to help in the community.