I'm writing to you today after one of the most horrific events that has ever happened in my hometown of El Paso, Texas. Many of you may not have known that I am from ELP, and I am posting about it today to inform those who don't know plus those who may be expecting a review or two from me this week. However, I am also posting in memoriam to those who lost their lives this past weekend and to offer myself a little space to get out some of my thoughts.
Born and raised in El Paso, I can tell you that El Paso is different than most cities in the United States. Everyone may say that about their hometown, but I can say that we honestly are different. Crime here has always been so low that we have constantly been at the top of the list for safest cities in the United States. Being so close to our sister city, Juarez, Mexico has not caused our crime rate to go up. Anyone who comes to El Paso can tell you that they have been welcomed with open arms, much love, and respect.
So, you can see why the news of an outsider, someone not of our city, driving hours upon hours just to come and target Hispanics can cause so much emotion in our community. We are predominantly made up of Hispanics in El Paso. I am Mexican American. It truly is heinous to feel hated for the most basic "label" of who you are.
I am tired of the outright freedom people have with their hate.
I am sad, and I am outraged at what has happened to my city. But what this murderer didn't know is that El Paso is stronger than anything he can stand for with his hate. El Paso is a family, a community, and it will only become stronger and more resilient in the wake of this tragedy.
I maintain this blog because books make me happy. I find myself stealing moments away to read since Saturday because I want a break from crying and feeling scared. Books are my solace. You may not hear back from me this week, but I will be back with more reviews when I feel it is appropriate. I will also be sharing this post on my other blog, Stitch Fidelity, which is where I post about my crafts. I take part in markets in my city and I make El Paso-centered artwork as well - it is only appropriate that I do so.
I ask that you hug those you love a little tighter, but I also ask that you stand up, not just for El Paso, but for every city where there has been a mass shooting. Because unlike illness and accidents - mass shootings are something we can help prevent. We're not going to do it with more security and guns. It has to happen with the lawmakers caring about the people who vote for them. People need to care about people.
Please take time to truly think about how you would react in this situation. I never thought it could happen here, and here we are.