Commentary: Not Again – New Orleans and Isaac

Seven years after Katrina ravaged New Orleans, Isaac is coming on shore. The storm is weaker, but the threat is real – and in a city that has already seen a lot of tragedy in recent years, from flooding to oil spills, Isaac is the last thing this city of jazz, arts, and culture needs.

As a disclaimer, New Orleans is one of my favorite places on earth. The food is amazing, and there is something magical about walking around the French Quarter. I’m also partial to the city because my sister lives there with her family. There is a community vibe to this city that is lost in many modern cities – people here really do “take care of their own” to quote Bruce Springsteen. Perhaps that’s one of the things that makes it so tragic when trouble strikes.

Luckily, the damage is not as extensive this time, and the emergency response teams have so far been very responsive in getting people out and helping people. At the same time, the city still needs our help. While there was an outpouring of support and aid for Katrina, this just hasn’t been so for Isaac. It’s important to remember that just because we don’t see the need every day, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. This is a city that is still, seven years later, recovering from one of the greatest tragedies a natural disaster and the incompetence of government agencies has wrought on our shores. BP is still working to clean up its oil mess, which has still lingered on beaches. So, if you have a moment, cruise over to Charity Navigator, pick a charity, and help out. If you have time, consider volunteering for cleanup efforts

Related articles

• New Orleans Habitat for Humanity Teams Up to Assist Recovery in River Parishes Hard Hit by Hurricane Isaac
• Local group sets up program for those impacted by hurricanes Isaac, Sandy
• Levees not to blame for La. surge, Army Corps of Engineers says
• Corps: Isaac’s path, slow speed caused flooding
• Repression against grassroots hurricane relief lingers in New Orleans