Segundo Barrio
January 25, 2024
SEGUNDO BARRIO
Who is Cimi and what is Segundo Barrio. Cimi is a shop owner who paints building murals. Segundo Barrio is the neighborhood in which he grew up in El Paso.
Hosted by the Tom Lea Institute, a group of about 15 of us were treated to history of this “Second Ward” (Segundo Barrio) from the eyes of a man who lived it, growing up as an immigrant in this multi-ethnic neighborhood. The intent of the many mural painters (of which Cimi is one), is to depict the history of the neighborhood through pictures with paintings of real historical people who influenced the growth and nurturing of this community. Up front and personal were the efforts of Father Rahm whose parish, Sacred Heart, lay in the heart of Segundo Barrio. He brought the many gangs of youth into his fold.
The stories and pictorial interpretations of the message behind the murals are fascinating. For instance, the mural of the two girls with a braid intertwined (below), represent the two cities of El Paso and Juarez and their permanent connection. Each mural has a story. Some date back to the 1970's, and the newer ones (dependent on funding) are painted on a type of plasticized fabric which permanently adheres to the building. To be cost effective, others are still painted right on the building.
The murals throughout Segundo Barrio abounded over and beyond our tour.
