Q: I am a Latina living in Odessa, Texas, who is sick and tired of the loud Spanish music I hear every night. When we first moved into our home 31 years ago, it was peaceful and quiet. We now have too much loud music and bothersome honking by people visiting my neighbors.
These people don’t get out of their cars to knock on the doors. They sit in their cars and honk until they either get a response or just drive off. It is mostly Latinos doing the honking, although I’ve noticed it’s some of the white neighbors too.
Some people don’t realize how inconsiderate they are, but others just don’t care. It would be a better world if we thought more about others and taught that lesson to our children. What can be done?
Catherine: Your assessment of the situation seems accurate: “Some people don’t realize how inconsiderate they are.” You have several options. You can sell the house and run for the hills, lie low and add more insulation to your walls, or stay where you are and encourage change.
If you are set on staying in your house, become proactive. Lead by example. Always be vigilant about your own noise level, and if you have children, teach them to do the same.
Second, if there are a few neighbors who feel the same frustration, start a neighborhood campaign. Put up signs asking people to respect the noise level. Include practical suggestions: “Knock on doors instead of honking” or “Play music quietly after dark,” etc. This could be a campaign that unites your neighborhood and makes it a better place for everyone to live.
Lily: My husband, who is hypersensitive to noise, predicts you’ll play the waiting game – either you’ll wait for them to move out, or you’ll wait to see how much you can stand before you move out.
Police can cite unruly neighbors, homeowners can form watch teams, and signs can be strategically positioned. But if these people do not want to change, you simply have to take other action. The reggaeton, rap and honky-tonk decibels know no racial boundaries. It can be Mr. Quiñones or Ms. Jones. Ask yourself how much you’re willing to tolerate, then take action. If you don’t get the result you want, start looking for a quieter environment.
Danny: It has taken 31 years for lax parenting, MTV, reality shows and larger-than-life celebrity egos to move into your barrio via inconsiderate and rude neighbors.
A lack of respect for one another in neighborhoods, at malls, in restaurants and the like is obvious throughout America and crosses all racial and ethnic categories. Get organized or get moving. The choice is yours.
Consejos is a bilingual advice column focused on relationships, culture and identity. E-mail consejos@dallasnews.com or write Consejos, c/o Texas Living, The Dallas Morning News, 508 Young St., Dallas, TX 75202.
