Millions of immigrants have streamed across the border from Mexico over the past 30 years, driven by dreams of a better life in El Norte; in fact, the trip has been looked at as a rite of passage for generations of Mexican youth. But a new research study from the Pew Hispanic Center finds that the trend is reversing. Families south of the border report seeing a wave of both returning relatives and younger members opting to stay put. In one technological school in Jalisco, students who are finding themselves better educated than their parents say they plan to stay and live the dream at home. For the first time in 60 years, net traffic at the border has gone to zero. What could be contributing to the trend? A lower birth rate, expanding economic and educational opportunities in Mexico and the increasing danger of border crossings are a few of the factors named by the study. In addition, economic woes in the U.S. have made it a less appealing goal for job seekers. What do these numbers mean to our economy? How will this affect the national argument over immigration? What shifts have you noticed in your community? If you’re a Mexican immigrant, have you or your friends considered returning to pursue opportunities there?
When United Teachers Los Angeles President A.J. Duffy was termed out of office this year, it was widely expected Vice President Julie Washington would be elected his successor. But in a surprise upset, Warren Fletcher, who teaches English at City of Angels alternative school, narrowly edged Washington out with a 53-47 percent victory. In his third run at the seat, Fletcher garnered the support of a coalition of teachers dissatisfied with the direction of union leadership as well as displaced school nurses, substitute teachers and learning coaches. In recent years, UTLA has been plagued with layoffs, salary cuts and loss of political clout. Fletcher’s term started on July 1st; it remains to be seen how he’ll implement his campaign promise to restore the UTLA to its former glory. Are you a teacher, parent or administrator who’s been unhappy with UTLA? What changes would you like to see happen in the teachers’ union? What should the new president’s priorities be?
Shirley Farris, 68, struggled with homelessness off and on for years. Now, she is a proud new resident of the Downtown Women’s Center, a shelter and support network in the heart of L.A.’s Skid Row. The DWC prides itself on its holistic approach to serving L.A.'s homeless women, but with all of its beds currently filled and a waiting list more than double its current occupancy, its story is also that of a community whose growing needs are far outpacing the services available.
