Fifth anniversary for hurricane survivors

Photos: Johnnie Stevens

Five years after the U.S. government let Black and poor people drown and starve in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, 70 survivors and supporters gathered in New York City’s Solidarity Center on Aug. 29. Following the devastation of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the criminal negligence of Bush and the total incompetence of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, people are now being hit by the BP oil spill. But they’re still fighting back.

People marched from Union Square to the Solidarity Center for a rally co-chaired by hurricane survivors Jennifer Jones and Ivory Parker. Jones gave awards to 30 organizations and individuals.

Harold Toussaint, a contributor to the book, “Overcoming Katrina,” spoke of his long battles against FEMA. Christine Lewis announced that the newly signed Domestic Workers Law would give protection to 200,000 workers who drudge in rich people’s homes.

The highlight of the rally was a magnificent brass band from Harlem. When they started to play the song, “When the Saints Come Marching In,” it was like New Orleans had come up to New York City.