Chicago and New Orleans
This morning, after reading various articles about whether or not New Orleans should be rebuilt (and we most definitely SHOULD rebuild it), I started thinking about its history. More specifically, the history it has with Chicago. After Googling around a bit, I found this page on the Chicago Historical Society’s website, on which CHS President Gary T. Johnson writes about some of the history between these 2 great cities and how it should inspire us to look forward.
Searching further, I found the National Park Service’s website. Did you know about the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park? I had no clue. Within that section of the site is a feature on “The People of Traditional New Orleans Jazz”. On the Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong page, it tells how Chicago was Armstrong’s home away from NO and how his talents blossomed during his time here.
There’s so much history and magic between these magnificent cities. Here’s to hoping New Orleans can put this current chapter behind them soon.
Before you talk about rebuilding, how about we fix the levee and pump system to it doesn’t happen again?
Don’t you think that goes without saying? These are people’s homes. For many, this is all they know, which was why they wouldn’t leave. Their blood, sweat and tears are in the soil of this city. For those who have never been there, New Orleans has a culture of its own. People who live there and love that city hold it precious in their hearts. And of course, making the necessary repairs to the city structures is a part of rebuilding.
The negativity, fighting and finger pointing is really frustrating. These were people’s lives, their homes, their communities, their schools, their loved ones, their culture, their religion, their music, their food. If FEMA had shown up 10 minutes after the levees broke, it would be 20 minutes too late. 4 days before they knew anyone was in the conventions center is unacceptable. It was a complete disregard for these people and everything they hold dear. And the rest of the country could only stand by and watch while our government did this. Whether we voted them into office or not, they are still our government.
Finger pointing and fighting does nothing for the situation. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, but the spewing anger at each other is doing nothing for the situation. If you think the Dems are finger pointing and blaming and Hillary is leading them up by being uncompassionate, then roll your sleeves up and prove them wrong. Get involved. Go down and help rebuild, get involved in a fundraising effort, take in a refugee, or just get involved in your own community. Look around Chicago, there is plenty of suffering here and rebuilding that needs to be done
“And of course, making the necessary repairs to the city structures is a part of rebuilding.”
I’m not sure if you were responding to my comment or the original post.
The levee system was inadequate. Everyone knew (or should have) that this was going to happen if a big Hurricane hit NO head on. It had been written up in local papers and I think National Geographic.
No one did anything about it. And before we allow people to rebuild their homes and lives in NO, we should make the city safe from another big hurricane. Otherwise, you’re inviting another disaster.
agreed that we need to repair the age old damaged levee system and pumps. also agreed that this was an issue people were aware of. and of course it should be repaired and improved as part of rebuilding this city. there is no questioning that. i also think there is no qustioning wether this city should be rebuilt.
i’m not arguing that the levees shouldn’t have been repaired prior to this disaster. i think it’s astonishing that the federal government allotted hundreds of millions of dollars for a bridge to no where in alaska and ignored this problem. it’s horrifying.
like i said, i’m not arguing that the levee system shouldn’t have been repaired and updated. i just wonder where the question is in whether or not this city should be rebuilt.
When I said the city should be rebuilt, I meant every aspect of it: the levees, the neighborhoods, the pumps, everything. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for another disaster down the line, because Mother Nature doesn’t give a rat’s ass. I just hope that we can depend on our leaders to realize this.
Another way to help things is a fundraiser on the 27th to benefit Katrina affecte schools. Half the proceeds will benefit Chicago area schools too. Check out the registration page at http://www.donorschoose.org/event_chicago.php