Worst Experiences of Living in El Paso: A Bilingual Teacher's Perspective
El Paso, Texas, a border city rich in cultural heritage and historical significance, can be a challenging place to call home. Over decades, the city has seen its fair share of ups and downs, particularly during my time there from 1961 to 1977. In this article, I will share some of my worst experiences, focusing on job market issues, safety concerns, and social interactions during my time in El Paso.
Job Market and Safety Concerns
One of the most negative experiences I had during my time in El Paso was the job market, which was particularly dreary. In those days, I began my career as a bilingual/English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher and faced a stark reality: dozens of applications for teaching positions went unanswered. Contrary to what I experienced in Connecticut, New Jersey, and Houston, every application in El Paso went to waste. Employment was scarce, and the ones available paid terribly. This made the city a wasteland for jobs, leaving many with limited opportunities and poor earnings.
Fast forward to today, the situation has changed. With my 30 years of experience as a bilingual/ESL teacher, I have recently been informed that there is a shortage of such teachers in El Paso. However, the experience of applying with no response is still a stark memory. Even today, I have two siblings living in the city, and I still visit every now and then. Yet, the past is a haunting reminder of the challenges faced.
Bullying and Mexican Gangs
Another unpleasant reality I encountered was the presence of bullying and Mexican gangs. This scene was especially vivid during my youth from 1961 to 1977. The term 'Kacks' referred to Chicano hoodlums with distinctive hairnets, baggy pants, and often carrying switchblades. These individuals would roam the streets and sometimes loiter around schools, posing a constant threat. The presence of these gangs made the city a dangerous place, with incidents of bullying and violence being a common occurrence. Although the city has evolved significantly since then, the memories are still ingrained.
Safety Tips and Driving Concerns
While living in El Paso, I became acutely aware of the safety issues. The city’s traffic rules seemed to be largely ignored by certain demographics, particularly young drivers and older individuals who felt they were above the law. Hazards like teen drivers texting, distracted driving, and cars from New Mexico or Mexico plates prompted a heightened state of alert. My advice to anyone driving in El Paso would be to keep your eyes on the road and stay vigilant, especially in areas where these behaviors are prevalent.
During the windy spring breaks, particularly windy and sandstorm-prone periods, securing outdoor items like patio chairs, flower pots, and trash cans from flying debris became a routine. These storms could be severe, with gusts reaching up to 40-50 miles per hour, making it necessary to protect personal property from damage.
Why the "Worst" Line of Questioning?
For many who write to me, the "worst" question seems to be the go-to for probing into negative experiences. However, I find this endless questioning of the worst aspects of being in El Paso to be somewhat redundant. While there were undoubtedly difficult times, the city also has its share of positive attributes. It's important to remember that every city, no matter how tough the conditions, has its own unique character and culture.
My wish is to encourage a more balanced view of the city. While acknowledging the struggles, it's also essential to highlight the progress and positive aspects that the city has seen over the years. If you have any questions or if you're considering living in El Paso, I would recommend looking beyond the negatives and checking out the latest developments and community support systems to see if it might be a good fit for you.