Even more of a travesty
We all know what has been going on in N.O. and surrounding areas after Hurricane Katrina. The whole thing: the preparation, the storm itself, the response, the political fallout--all--has been appalling and awful. There is absolutely nothing positive about any of the news, even as Mayor Nagin announces the return of folks beginning next week in selective zip codes.
I think this is a mistake. Especially when the mayor and others are getting ready to welcome tourists and "curiosity-seekers" (storyhttp://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050915/ap_on_re_us/hurricane_katrina).
CURIOSITY-SEEKERS?!?!?
I can't help but think of the WTC. While in New York this summer, Doug and I thought about going to Ground Zero to pay our respects. Our friend who lives in Manhattan mentioned that in addition to it being a major construction zone, it has turned into a tourist trap. She said she'd be happy to take us down there, but as soon as I heard her call it a tourist trap...I didn't want to see it. I'll go there when there is a proper and dignified memorial to those who died there, it is hallowed ground. Not a place to sell t-shirts and mugs.
I can just picture the French Quarter in a couple of week... the "I Survived Katrina" t-shirts while dead people decompose in their former homes just across town. Of course we must move on, we must rebuild, but I worry about the nation's vision. Once folks move back in, it might be easier to just say oh, okay! N.O. is fine! Folks are living there again--that was quick! Great job!
Then gas prices will go back down (somewhat), we'll hop back into our SUVs, and go about our way. The folks folks who have only a crappy sports stadium and uncomfortable cot to call home for the forseeable future will be forgotten.
I really worry about this.
As a collective, we learned nothing from 9/11 and I feel as if it is going the same way with this disaster. What will it take, my friends? Talk about worry...
posted by Jenn @ 5:08 PM
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