finding-looting on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

JNOR cityboy says:

Now thats just rediculous. Its telling and transparent, but rediculous.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

The good old US of A don't change jus' because a lil' hurricane. Black, you're a scummy looter jus' deservin' to git shot; white, a plucky survivor jez' helpin' their family ter survive. WHY AM I NOT SURPRISED?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Jake T says:

Funny. I didn't even notice the skin color of the people until someone pointed it out to me.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

fixbuffalo says:

please...AFP doesn't use the word "looting"...it's not a racial thing...get real!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

thetaiko says:

CNN is using the top photo in one of their photo galleries - here is the caption they use: "A young man drags groceries through chest-deep water in New Orleans on Tuesday."
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Thewizz says:

Read the cut lines that go with these two photos - white people 'find' and black people 'loot'. Apparently in America, your actions are defined the color of your skin.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

tdsmoove says:

Examples like the captions for the pictures are the reasons why we ask the public to watch out for subtle or subconscious racism in the media. You'll find many for the same types of reports on television as well... Blacks in Wal-Mart while whites wait with their family on a porch, it's ludicrous.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

negnegneg says:

Why is everyone so worried about it anyway? When the owners go back into the stores, they'll chalk all of it up to a loss and collect a big insurance check. It's not like they'll try to salvage and re-sell it.

I say we focus on the selfish business owners who won't just GIVE the victims the stuff. Isn't it hypocritical if Walmart donates $100K to the efforts, but getting mad because people "stole/looted" from them? It's like the Bible says, when a man is hungry, you feed him first, THEN you try to lecture/preach to them.

Besides, what are the authorities going to do? Lock them up? ...Oh, they can't...the jails are flooded...why don't they release some of the murderers and rapists to make room for these vicious criminals stealing for no reason.

Bottom line: I know one thing, if I see a pack of diapers and some PediaSure in a store, all I'm thinking about is my son, then I'll pray for forgiveness so I don't go to hell for theft...
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

hglb182 says:

Hahahahha that's hilarious
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

fyins says:

Read the explanation before screaming racism.

www.poynter.org/column.asp?id=45&aid=8810 6

One was picked up floating by, the other was removed from inside a store. Found vs. looted.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

RichardBronosky says:

Notice the AP and AFP logos. The captions are not written by Yahoo!, they are written by the press agencies that provide the photos. AFP stands for "Agence France Press". The term "finding" was used to show extreme sensitivity, not to show racial prejudice. (BTW, racism has a completely different meaning and is not applicable here or in most places where it is used.)

See Yahoo!'s response here news.yahoo.com/page/photostatement

--
I don't need to hide behind an alias. I speak after heavy consideration.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

CaliTransplants says:

The reason he assumed that the whites found the groceries was the same reason someone else assumed the blacks looted the groceries. Assumptions are full of racism.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

GeoffSudoku says:

See this article in Snopes for "looters" for a rationalization to this photo.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

lilcalicreole says:

Its doesnt matter that the black guy got his stuff from the store....they both stole or neither of them stole because cuz they both took wat didnt belong to them but they both did it to survive. And the definition of looting is to plunder so the fact is still either they all "looted"or none of they did.
just the fact that ppul are trying to justify racial diction by comparing where they picked up the stuff is ridiculous... looting its even that bad of a word but when whites find and blacks loot it is racial
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

moomoolambaw says:

FYINS, that's pretty lame. The explanation by the photographer of the pic with the whites starts with "I believed in my opinion, that they did simply find them." These assumptions always have a basis. you also cite no explanation for the caption for the pic with the blacks. What you are doing is plain rationalization. Bias exists. When the pix are juxtaposed it becomes very clear.
RICHARD BRONOSKY makes a more rational point, but I suggest Richard that you just look at the external narrative that unfolds when these things occur -- at the very least you must concede it's certainly ironic.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

randommaniamiam says:

The point being made about racism not being applicable in this case, is, I believe, not to argue that there is no racial bias or prejuidice, but simply to point out what has become a very sad phenomenon, to wit, the near eclipsing of the phrases racial bias and prejuidice in favor of the more inflammatory, sensational and implied criminal word racism. But in fact, they ARE NOT the same things, they have distinct and DIFFERENT MEANINGS, yet racism is ever more the first choice to describe all cases. This indiscriminate and thoughtless accusation in cases where only bias or prejuidice is involved is sort of like calling all thieves murderers, which is ludicrous, unfair and unmasks the accuser's great prejuidice against the offending, biased party. Think about it this way, Some idiot says "the black loots and the white finds". By saying that is racist, you are saying "obviously the people behind this want to commit genocide and wipe all blacks from the face of the Earth" THAT IS WHAT YOU ARE SAYING WHEN YOU PULL THE "RACISM" CARD - GET THE DIFFERENCE?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

andele30 says:

Its obvious both racism and bias exists and was very evident tonight when the director of FEMA was asked why the refugees in the Superdome had not gotten food/water. (there was film footage and verbal testimony showing people dead, lying on the ground, in wheelchairs, etc, covered in sheets, from DEHYDRATION of all things-right outside the doors of the Superdome)He stated that he thought all "they" where doing was looting and so there was basically no hurry to get those necessities to them. He then says that they are doing "the best they can" even though they've apparently known about the Superdome situation for days now. I'm disgusted with his racist statement but not surprised because whenever it is black people needing help, whether it be here or Africa, the request is always put on the back burner and there's always a crappy "valid" explanation.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

randommaniamiam says:

Truly unbelievable and sad - why do I even bother!? The gates to hell are wide people!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Yahuda says:

It is so unfortunate for man, the Homo sapien, the self-claimed peak of perfection , that we have to wait for calamities like these to get our wide shut eyes to see in real 3D. Wether we agree or deny, if this community were not 95% black, there wouldnt be people dying on wheel chairs, or spending nearly a week grouped up like in a concentration camp. This race has seen more suffering than this, and it is just so mind boggling that there is only one black race in the whole world( if color is to be put into consideration), I guess it is almost time to identify the real Israelites. Yahweh be with them all
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

majestyoverthrow says:

It's funny to me how whenever there's a situation which has to do with racism, it's always a white guy to say it's not racist. Things that make you go hmmmmm.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

wmtdm says:

The definition of racism isn't "wanting to wipe all the blacks from the face of the earth." Racism is actions, intended or unintended, that lead to the subjugation of a group of people. So, even if accidental, propegating the idea that Whites find while Blacks loot undermines the ability for Black people to overcome the negative image often associated with dark skin.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

randommaniamiam says:

Yes, prejuidice makes you go hmmm..
Racism makes you want to puke.
Not sure where funny comes in at all.
Thou shalt not bear false witness against your neighbor, or shall thou?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

To Yahuda----right on! Insight is greatly needed in these times! To Randommaniamian-----your pretzel logic is typical of a racially defensive mind-set: it could easily be argued that prejudice and bias are to racism what, arguably, marijuana is to, say, methamphetamine. They both could be construed as 'gateways' of a sort. I knew last Monday when the media placed the black face of New Orleans to this crisis it would never receive the impartial reporting due it. To wit, there are 'heart-felt' stories of whites returning to their homes, seeking treasured possesions; while Blacks and poor whites are only seen as 'looting'. What should be discussed in more depth is....not only the obvious bias, unequal reporting by the media (particularly, Bill O'Reilly---who thinks the whole thing is just an excuse for 'thugs' to steal-- in addition, the emphasis is now shifting to, not relief and rescue, but, 'taking back 'control' of the city---from whom??-----Mother Nature, I don't think thats whats being implied.) So ignorant, fearful old-time racists are more concerned with 'checking' the Black' problem--rather than, say, helicopter food drops. But the blatant irresponsibility on the media's part to not examine more deeply why we have a President who 'cut his 5 WEEK vacation SHORT---THE NEXT DAY!! And, 3 days AFTER the tragedy has done nothing but asked already scrapped US citizens to pony-up the relief----unbelievable!! Kind of makes you wonder where all those FEMA tax dollars have been spent. As majestyoverthrow said....HHHHHMMMMMMMMMMM?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

dana_leighton says:

AFP, the originator of the second photo and its caption, asked Yahoo! to remove it from their archives. Interesting...

news.yahoo.com/photo/050830/photos_ts_afp/050 830071810_sh...
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

workshop visuals media says:

Here's the response from the AFP shooter (w/ the white folks)from a message board:

Photographer's response:"

Chris Graythen, Photographer, Photo Editor
new orleans | LA | USA | Posted: 6:10 PM Today
->> Jeasus, I don't belive how much crap I'm getting from this. First of all, I hope you excuse me, but I'm completely at the end of my rope. You have no Idea how stressful this whole disaster is, espically since I have not seen my wife in 5 days, and my parents and grand parents HAVE LOST THIER HOMES. As of right now, we have almost NOTHING.

Please stop emailing me on this one.

I wrote the caption about the two people who 'found' the items. I believed in my opinion, that they did simply find them, and not 'looted' them in the definition of the word. The people were swimming in chest deep water, and there were other people in the water, both white and black. I looked for the best picture. there were a million items floating in the water - we were right near a grocery store that had 5+ feet of water in it. it had no doors. the water was moving, and the stuff was floating away. These people were not ducking into a store and busting down windows to get electronics. They picked up bread and cokes that were floating in the water. They would have floated away anyhow. I wouldn't have taken in, because I wouldn't eat anything that's been in that water. But I'm not homeless. (well, technically I am right now.)

I'm not trying to be politically correct. I'm don't care if you are white or black. I spent 4 hours on a boat in my parent's neighborhood shooting, and rescuing people, both black and white, dog and cat. I am a journalist, and a human being - and I see all as such. If you don't belive me, you can look on Getty today and see the images I shot of real looting today, and you will see white and black people, and they were DEFINATELY looting. And I put that in the caption.

Please, please don't argue symantics over this one. This is EXTREMELY serious, and I can't even begin to convey to those not here what it is like. Please, please, be more concerned on how this affects all of us (watch gas prices) and please, please help out if you can.

This is my home, I will hopefully always be here. I know that my friends in this business across the gulf south are going through the exact same thing - and I am with them, and will do whatever I can to help. But please, please don't email me any more about this caption issue.

And please, don't yell at me about spelling and grammar. Im eating my first real meal (a sandwich) right now in 3 days.

When this calms down, I will be more than willing to answer any questions, just ask.

Thank you all
Chris Graythen
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Queen of Reeves says:

Personally, I really believe that anyone who can even come close to suggesting that racism-prejudice, bias, whatever you want to call it-isn't self-evident in just about everything we do-work, shopping, dating, etc.-is just plain blind! The passing of a century or two has made very little difference in the presence of it. However, I don't think that Mr. Graythen had any such things in mind when he both shot and wrote the caption for his photo. Of course, our surroundings and breeding can be reason enough for some subconscious actions or statements, but I couldn't-in all honesty-say that this man committed any crime. Either way, I'm going to agree whole-heartedly with Negnegneg and say that at a time like this, it doesn't even matter whether the bread and soda (come on, now) were found or looted. These people are destitute and I think our time would be better used to help in anyway we can-even if it's just sending a can of beans or something. I, for one, am not there, and cannot imagine what these people are going through. If you really want to help, send your 'can of beans' to the superdome. Black or white, none of them benefit from this episode of 'Racism: A variation on a theme'!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

cherwick says:

Thank you Chris.
I can't even begin to imagine what it is like to be the situation those people are. Black or white. I just know it's "survival" time.
Thank you for the pictures, thank you for being our eyes during this horrible ordeal. Yes, we are still plagued with racism, prejudices and stupidity. It almost as automatic and mindless as inhaling/exhaling.
So for the todays of this ordeal all of you out there lets focus on what we all can do. Some will survive and some won't. Is it fair, NO but it's real.
Send your money. Use your gas wisely and pray long and heard cause tomorrow my dear friends, it could be YOU!!!Snow storm, earthquake, terrorist attack, mud slide. . .

Cherwick
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

sgtpepper23 says:

www.philly.com/mld/philly/entertainment/12528 661.htm
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

UltraClay says:

Sorry about the loss, Chris.

I can't believe this column. I feel utter disgrace towards these selfish comments. If you are a person of African-American descent, you should put your mouse down and go find some canned goods you can spare for your people down south. If you are not, and you are an American anyway, you should do the same.

I really can't believe how unwilling people are to overlook their differences and realize that as people, WE ARE ALL THE SAME, and mother nature will surely try us to make sure we remember this.

Its times like these where people have historically set aside their differences and just pitched in and helped. I can't believe that as fellow Americans die of thirst, disease, and hunger, we are bickering over the tone of a caption about the event itself instead of actually helping! Even IF the journalist is racist, he's doing more about the situation by being there and reporting on what is going on than you are by fighting over what was meant by what he wrote. GET REAL PEOPLE! Put the swords down already, and do something!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

generaljustin14 says:

Dude a nignog would go to the grocery store for food and bring back a 30 pack of busch. A cracker would go and make his bitch carry a single loaf of bread. I see nothing wrong with the observations. They are completely correct.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

biggy_bear says:

Heres my problem. The pics on first glace with out reading any of the captions say the same thing to me. People struggling to survive after tragedy. Both are in waist deep water. So the sticking point becomes why does one say looting while the other says finding. Well the photog who took the pic of the white couple said it was because "we were right near a grocery store that had 5+ feet of water in it. it had no doors. the water was moving, and the stuff was floating away. These people were not ducking into a store and busting down windows to get electronics. They picked up bread and cokes that were floating in the water. They would have floated away anyhow." In the pic of the african american I see no electronics broken or down doors. I see a child walking through the water with what looks like food in his hands. Just like the other picture. So i ask again why the difference in the language?
For those that believe that wording or rather how things are phrased doesnt mean anything then i would ask why do we need pages and pages of contracts all written in very specific legal language so that nothing could be misinterpreted? Please lets not be mistaken and let us not argue semantics. How things are phrased, how language is used is all the users way of expressing a feeling or enciting a reaction.
For all those who dont believe that I say to you FUCK YOU. Its just like saying "hello" or "right on" isnt it.
Oh and for those who say that we shouldnt be arguing this stuff we should be doing more to help well i say to you most of america right now is reacting to how the news is focusing on "looting" instead of oh i dunno the people who have died or the homes that where destroyed or what the govenment is doing to help them out or the millions of other things that play back seat to the "animals" running amuck.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

jennilsh says:

I cant even believe there is this huge argument about this right now. Lets argue about how we are going to help these poor people. FORGET ABOUT THE CAPTIONS in the pictures. 2 different people were doing their jobs and reporting. Lets do our jobs as citizens and try to make this situation better instead of whining and accusing people of racism.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

iizuhignantaznigguh says:

To me it seems clear that the caption on the images depict a racist's point of view, no doubt about it. And the reason this captions are racist is because in the core of the photographer lies a racist heart who sees two people trying to survive but in one group he BELIEVED in his OPINION that one finds while the other loots. The photographer will perform astounding verbal maneuvering to hide the hatred in his heart towards black people; such as removing the image & caption from Yahoo, justify his caption, by telling of noble deeds, etc.

I say to him, Mr. Graythen please acknowledge your heart -to yourself if no one else- and consider revising

We all know that there is racism in America (in the world).
I pose these questions:
How did racism come into existence and why? (I suppose while we're at it, can we also consider sexism? maybe other forms of discrimination as well?)

Can racism (sexism; discrimination) ever be conquered? If not; why not? If so; how so?

I think that it's feasible to some extent. I don't know if in its entirety, but at least to the point of peaceful-comfortable coexistence. I believe it's feasible because I imagine that if something greater than all groups of people came to destroy us indiscriminately, human kind would unite; we would overlook our difference (I'm talking something on a grand scale like some alien invasion bent on extinguishing the human race) for the sake of our survival.

I suppose racism may have originated from slavery. It helps to justify disparity and unjust treatment if we look at other groups of people as somehow being lower. And I gather discrimination is propagated by corporations using minority groups as a check and balance. For instance telling a white worker if you demand raises we’ll just hire a black worker and pay them less (or outsource the job). The same strategy can be used with men and women. And I imagine a more likely way to overcome these differences (barring an alien invasion) is by finding our common grounds and struggling together for our survival and well being. I think if we could develop solidarity amongst ourselves we could raise our standard of living instead of letting corporate CEOs earn such disparate income rates in comparison to the people who actually do the work.

Of course the question then would be how on earth would we do this? I think it would take a conscientious effort by all to organize ourselves –like one big union of workers ran by the workers, democratically.

What do people think bout these questions and ideas?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

seejayjames says:

Wow. This is a pretty amazing string of posts. I'm heartened that most of them are screaming, "Enough of this crap, we are all human beings, and we live in a world where racism is widespread, yet we are all human beings and obviously need the same things to survive---can we PLEASE just drop the whole "ism" thing??! It's doing nobody any good, it's black magic with words, thoughts, and actions, not to mention using the published word to try and influence others--sometimes by the millions, and often quite effectively.

YAHUDA--Right to the point that one of the reasons the suffering are predominantly poor is that so many of them had no options in this situation!! Regardless of race, being at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder is an utterly reprehensible outcome of an utterly reprehensible society/race WHEN THERE IS SO MUCH EXCESS WEALTH FLOATING AROUND. If we could "even out" the wealth, power, and respect, 99% of the world's problems would miraculously vanish (with time, of course).

Also saddening is that it takes a real calamity for people to stop and think about what's REALLY going on. Fortunately, this often spurs positive change. Unfortunately, this sentiment is usually very short-lived (except for those directly affected, of course).

Great string of posts. In a sense, I'm GLAD the photos where there to get people thinking---though of course, the language usage wasn't exactly what you might call......"fair and unbiased". Whatever the case, this tells us to read between the lines of ANYTHING we read, and if we are publishing, to try and write IN INTEGRITY along the lines of the truly good things in life---love, compassion, empathy, hope, truth, and beauty.

Peace.......... -CJ
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

miasiennas says:

To iizuhignantaznigguh: These were taken by two different photographers.

To randommaniamiam: Are you aware of the fact that the meaning of words can change over time? Quit being a word snob.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

Chris Graythen--in one way, can't be labeled a racist because he had no way of knowing that the other photo would be juxtapositioned next to his, thereby, creating the polarity, he merely pointed out HIS ASSUMPTION of the white couples doings, however, in another way, he IS racist--by being another cog in the enormous machinery of faux media representation. It IS the province of SOLELY the white mans VIEW or ASSUMPTION of an event---theres the rub--in his depiction, food logically HAD to be obtained by the white couple HONESTLY because it was simply floating around for any to grab, the doors of the store were missing, etc---he missed the point that the food stuffs came from SOMEWHERE and MAYBE---were obtained (without benefit of purchase); but in the other photo, this same overall media ASSUMPTION was/is that the Black youth simply HAD to have 'LOOTED' his goods--simply because he HAD them at the time of the photo. The media, it seems, always assumes, particularly when its flavored by their pre-concieved notions, values, and yes, randommaniamian---prejudices. The problem that the two photos portray and what is also, I perceive, an underlying current that permeates ANY conversation pertaining to racism,i.e., some whites have to hurriedly dash to that place of 'Sanctuary', you know, ----the 'aw shucks, why can't we all get along and move on.......'sanctum. The photos reveal todays brand of racism that is lucidly clear to an ever-increasingly angry group of black men who see---daily---the subtle, subliminal media racism that is not so covert as white America would like to feel. There are many examples, say, in commercials----where many products are sold depicting the WHITE MAN AND HIS CHILDREN or the same AND HIS WIFE/FAMILY---guiding them,leading them, providing FOR them, etc---now compare this to the many commercials/programs depicting the single, Black mom AND HER CHILDREN teaching them to play football, how to be a 'man',etc--with NO BLACK HUSBAND/MAN in sight!!---in this netherworld of black distortion: black women raise children----alone. buy cars----alone. Buy houses----alone, and participate in group commercial scenes with nary a partner in sight; while everyone else is paired off!! (Forget about the white-man FANTASY commercials of nubile, sexy black women LUSTING after the James Bond wannabee-types!)Then theres the example of news reporting---- often depicting crime as young, black, and Nike-sneakered-----while white men such as Rove, Cheney, Rummy, Bush (and countless others in white-collared positions)----are literally, stealing this country blind----these are not any great intellectual insights, but they lend credibiltiy to the perception by Blacks--that the only time we're part of the equation is when we're dying for America or there needs to be a pictorial next to the word 'crime'. Lastly, the photos inflame because when you place them in the greater context of the overall media portayal (or lack) they bespeak of the institutionalized CLASS issues that are implied. We REALLY should be asking here, not WHO's 'looting'---black or white--- but instead, WHY is the institutionalized, VERY OLD classism and oppression that has been fostered upon New Orleans inner-city poor---that has them running through the streets scrounging in garbage heaps and UNABLE to evacuate before impending doom probably because they lacked having as little as $40----- still being allowed to exist?---- and the white people who are sitting in homes in the higher-elevated, more monied parts of town talking about shooting anyone who nears their property?(because the media has relentlessly hammered into their minds that the Blacks are out to harm or steal from them) Until some of these realities are TRULY addressed in honest, open discourse---I fear, white people (and especially those in the media who fear that some suppressed truth or hint of career-ending racist remarks will bubble up out of their mouths) will ALWAYS seek to avoid the topic of racism and continue to convince themselves its always 'an isolated incidence' or something we've 'moved beyond' here in America----white people--WAKE UP and see we need to overcome and overstand this issue before its too late.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

shayeonsenters says:

I've read a few of the posts on this message board, and I've been watching the news and stuck to the CNN website like glue. I have two comments...first off, for all those that say "how could you argue over semantics during this time of tragedy" wake up and smell the shyttie residue that racism, and oppression has left in our society and stop being naive. There is absolutely no reason for these people to be in a state of destitute when there's been millions of dollars spent on the relief of Tsunami victims, the re-building of Iraq, and the "war on terrorism". There is no valid excuse that can be given that will explain why these people have not been evacuated at a faster rate and provided more relief. If Bush can send an army to go fight in the conditions in the middle east he can send that same army to do more than drop a few bags of sand and then have the nuts to ask American citizens to send money. I've been reading stories and watching interviews of people who have been mase'd/pepper sprayed by the police, and harassed for looting, and made to lay face down on the pavement like it's a freakin episode of Cops. So if you think that black people are just trying to use this opportunity to play the "race card" think again. It's sad but it's a prime example of how much things really haven't changed.
I'm disgusted by this whole situation, I'm upset that people aren't stepping up to the plate, I'm pissed off that if this was a mudslide in white america relief would have been there within hours, I'm livid that there are still people stranded on rooftops waiting to be rescued, this makes absolutely no sense, and I just pray to God that his wrath rain fire on the unjust.
Secondly, if ever there was a time for people to come together to make a difference this is it. People wake up.... if you can't give money, donate food, clothes just do something. Go to the Red Cross and donate your time, anything you can do to help do it, don't just sit back and watch it all unfold from the side lines because it could easily be me or you, this is too close to home.
Shay~
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

prettieeyesc says:

The reaction to these Hurricane victims by the media has sickened me to no end. To try to negate the racial component that lends to the suffering of our people is ignorant at best. When the hurricanes came through Florida we didn't hear about the looting, rapes, and crimes that went on, not because they weren't occurring, but because the people shown on the tv screens were mostly of means and of the white race.

A photojournalist spoke of the dichotomy in the treatment based on his experience with both tragedies. He's in the middle of people in the convention center and seeing people die right before his eyes. He breaks down because he's seen the bodies of dead babies lying around. He spoke of how the situation is portrayed in the media as though these people were a bunch of crime ridden animals, but the reality is that the majority of the people are doing exactly what they are told to do by the authorities to receive assistance and being left to die.
FEMA pulled back their aid due to "the heightened violence", buses refused to go in to pick up these people because "they were afraid to go in".
The reporter goes on to say he saw much worse things going on in Florida than are going on in the gulf at this point, but you heard nothing of it, the only thing you heard of was the need of the people.
Why are police being pulled back from rescue missions to go contain the looters? I am sickened and saddened by the way this country is reacting (slowly), but I am not surprised. If it were another area, another people the supplies would have been there and the people would not be suffering as much as they are now.

May God have mercy on the souls of our administration and of the callous idiots in the media that continue to deter people from giving aid to the people who need it the most.

Before any of you say anything again about "we shouldn't talk about the racism, we should get out and do something," I say to you I am talking about the racism and that is doing something. I am also coordinating relief efforts and donating money to the charities that are offering relief.
Racism is real, and it is rearing its ugly head in this situation and now maybe some of you with blinders on will wake up to the way certain members of our society are treated.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

pointfive says:

idiots
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

shayeonsenters says:

I totally agree Prettieyesc.... it's heart wrenching to see (once again) how we're portrayed, misrepresented and treated as inferior. I'm actually going to volunteer for 3 weeks with the Red Cross to actually go and help. Somebody has to step up...why not me?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Mountain_Rose says:

The pic of the white (or lightskinned) couple is gone. Along with caption and all. Why remove it? The picture and caption of the black kid remains. Change the caption of both, or whatever but the caption on the black kid is unchanged and his picture remains.
That's how to solve it? Can't the captions be changed?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Mountain_Rose says:

Ok, I'm aware that the white couple pic is of AFP while the other is of AP. Why remove it though? Now all you get is the black kid looting.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

blackroses1317 says:

Ok, this is so stupid, I think what really needs to happen is that they chance the language in both pictures to match. Either they're both "finding" or they're both "looting". That's the only way to fix it. They've already marred their image, and they're only making it worse for themselves by only removing one of the pictures.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

Pointfive-----you are EXACTLY the cowardly, weak, effeminate-natured, non-communicative idiot I was referring to in earlier posts!

Shay, Prettieeyes and the rest, are all talking about rising above, but not pretending, that racism is not an element in this tragedy---- by contributing time, efforts, money AND SIMPLY DOING SOMETHING !!------if you have a disagreement to voice in this matter, don't hide behind one-word anonymities and thereby DEMONSTRATING TO ALL your limited range of compassion or sympathy----you cowardly dolt!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

schlafwandler says:

So the reporter/photographer claims the white couple was outside the grocery store and 'found' the food floating away. Why were they there at the closed store in the first place?

To loot it. Like everyone else.

Poor choice of words is gonna cost that reporter/editor his job. Oh wait they are white...probably get promoted.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

aaron_fryson says:

it just makes me sick how white people come on this page and still act like things arnt wrong,
Yes people are suffering but to turn this into something as rotton as this man has made it is Sad .

If this was a bunch of rich white people then they woulda already been taken out ,
sending a chopper and a yellow bus is retarded come on !!!!!!

do you not SEE THIS !!!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

In response to negnegneg...a few things:

1)Wal-Mart dontaed $15million
2)It's not just essentials the people are looting. They're looting jewelry, plasma/flat screens, guns, toys, anything they can get their hands on. The two pictures above I wouldn't be so concerned about because they have food in their hands - both pictures. No telling what's in either of their bags, but no reason to speculate. It's a bit out of control when people go through looting (stealing unecessarliy valuable items) instead of getting what they need for survival. And trying to defend half of these morons down there is ridiculous. These idiots don't care about human life or survival. They care about what they can get right now for the pure enjoyment of stealing, vandalizing and causing havoc. Shooting at relief helicopters and ambulances is what the same looters are doing...thinking only for themselves or not thinking at all. If they do shoot down the chopper, it's going to be out of service anyway. Do they know how to fly it??? Probably not. So why shoot it down?!?!? Who can sit back and defend any of these morons who just want more trouble in the city. I have family there and lived there for years and know how slummy the place is in many parts. Bush said 30,000 troops will be sent down and I think they have the right to treat it like a war-zone; if you come across a hostile enemy, both foreign and domestic - shoot to kill.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

art8641 says:

To aaron fryson: People see what they want to see. Black or white. Man or woman.

To the posters stating that we should all just get along and put the past behind us: Let the discussions continue.

We need to talk to each other.

We need to yell at each other.

Its the only way we can help each other.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

aaron_fryson says:

art8641 you are a retard and so is rugbyplayer
i hate when people just keep using the love bullshit !
come on for the people that are stealing the only reason they are stealing is because we live under a man called BUSH they arnt going to get anything after the floods and there houses are gone everything is gone I hope they steal some good stuff and get some good money for it The world we live in now is only set up for the rich and all you other people get on here and have never lived a life like theres so all you can say is that we should love each other its not going to happen and these people are being realistic not living on mars like you guys
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

I don't say love them, I say shoot them. How many times have hurricanes and floods and natural disasters happen before and you didn't she shit like this happening. Take 9/11 for instance, you mean those people didn't lose anything? Hell yeah they did, but you didn't see the American people running around stealing tv's from stores or firing back at police or shooting emergency helicopters. They're all a bunch of morons. And by the way this retard knows the proper use of their, there and they're.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

I do not agree with the comments or the difference in the wording, however you want to put it, but Yahoo did post a message saying they do not alter or change the caption or take the pictures. These are works of other publications and the other one asked for their picture to be removed, it had nothing to do with Yahoo.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

MCHardy44 says:

After reading Yahoo's reason for removing the white couple's photos, I found I made a mistake in my conclusion about Yahoo's action.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Speaker of the House says:

Rugby Player...and others...

Don't forget that George Bush was the Governor of Texas who refused to meet with the widow of the man who was murdered in that most heinous way of being mutilated and dismembered by being dragged by chains behind a speeding pickup truck. This was probably the most publicized murder in his state and he wouldn't meet with the widdow of the victim to give her two kind words. It would not surprise me at all if sent in troops to kill the ... what did you call them, ..."morons".

America hardly needs an excuse to kill young black males. It's open season on black males and black's in general in every major city in the United States. Police have been shooting to kill for quite some time. Take a look at what is happening in Ohio, New York, etc. You can't even reach for your ID without getting shot. You can't question why you are being pullled over without being dragged out of your car and maliciously beaten.

Oh wait a minute. You can, but I can't. That's the difference.

Look at what they are doing to our children down in Florida. I can't imagine being Tazered/Tasered (sp?) myself but they are using this weapon on 5 and 14-year-old minority kids.

Can you imagine someone using a Taser on one of the Olsen twins for throwing a temper tandrum. Imagine how cute and innocent they looked back in the "Full House" days.

You see, this is EXACTLY why we need to address this language issue. SEMANTICS are EVERYTHING. When blacks are constantly referred to using adjectives such as looters, criminals, animals, thugs, aggresive, malicious, etc. then it is easy for predominantly white police forces to use excessive force and treat blacks like the "animals" that they are described to be. It becomes easy to not to identify with or have compassion.

This is exactly why whites are treated with more lenience by the police and why they get swifter and greater relief in times of need. Because the authorities can identify with them. The authorities have compassion for them.

It's like this. To America, because of its rich racially charged history and continued media propagation, the Olsen twin is to be loved and considered as American as Apple Pie. While little Rudy from the Cosby show, to many, is nothing more than an "animal" to be Tasered if she so much as jay-walks.

Stop smoking that crack people. America has some serious issues. This perpetuated racism is a malignant cancer that is eating away at this countries core. It permeates everything from private golf club memberships to who get's let into our borders, to which countries get relief aid, to how our neighborhoods are protected and policed. It determines what happens after a motorist gets pulled over and often which motorists get pulled over in the first place. It determines who has to fear for their lives when they hear a police siren. It determines who has to pray that their teenage sons will not be shot by typical American police officers for doing nothing more than being a teenager.

Enough with the soap box. I am not optimistic that any of this will change. It hasn't changed in my lifetime and it may not change in my children's lifetime. I only hope that they do not fall victim to it. Hell, I still pray that I don't fall victim to it.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

dishecasmith says:

Hello all, At this point in time I don't think "looting" or "finding" is what is important. What is important is that fact that there are people who need to be evalcuated from N.O. but most importantly they need food and water. AS far are race is concered it not about that its about their SES (socioeconomic status). Its the low class people who are left there to fend for themselves. These people are desparate and like the saying go. "desparate times call for desparate measures. If push came to shove if I were in there shoes I would do what I have to do to make sure me and my family eat. You all can call it "looting" "finding" what have you. Its all about survival. I don't think the gov concern should be with those people who are just trying to survive. It should be about getting them out of there to a place where they could get food and water and shelter, If they did that they they would have to worry about the "looting". It has been four days it does not make any since for people to still be stuck on top of roofs or in the water, or in a place with no food and water. I agree with some of the others they need to send it the national guard to give them food water and start taking some of them out of there in their trucks. However I do agree that when it come to certain minority groups to the gov some things are slow t be dealt (spell check)with. They knew the storms were coming they should have offered shuttle buses out of that city for those people who could not afford to evalcuate or did not have transporation to just leave. IF they would have offered these services to them and they turned them down then it would have been on them but how can you evalcuate if you don't have enough money or any transportation. (spell check).
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

dishecasmith says:

In response to rugbyplayer

What you are saying is an insult. These people are desparate because they are not being rescued. They see it as a last resort. That does not make it right but they are frustrated, tried, hungry, and so on. Why do you think homeless people committ crimes that is there only means of survival. So for you to say treat it like a war zone and shoot to kill is just insensitive. I am not saying taking the electronics and all that is right but these people don't think help is coming they don't have electricity and eveything is flooded. I could be away to get immediate assitance there. Instead of "locking them up" (jail is flooded). They need to expedite those people out of there.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

sistablak42 says:

Rugbyplayer is obviously a white guy so we should forgive his ignorance. He has been a member of a privileged society whose answer to everything is kill or take it over. He represents the very essence of why the whole world hates us. Poor thing...

I wonder if he would have advocated the murder of slavemasters by blacks during slavery? Funny how the perception of who it's ok to kill changes when the shoe is on the other foot.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

I agree with the fact that this could have been prevented in the fact that transportation could have been provided (I don't know whether it was or not). But there are more than just homeless and minorities stuck in the superdome and on rooftops. Secondly, New Orleans is 70% minoritiy (http://neworleans.areaconnect.com/statistics .htm) so it's kind of hard not to have blacks, asians or hispanics stuck on rooftops. Like I said, I have family down there, some of whom got out, some did not. The main reason it has taken four days to evacuate the city is because of the terrorist acts started by our own people (black, white or any race). I'm not trying to jump around and say it's a racial thing, never did I say that, so (speaker of the house) stop trying to pull a racist card on me. I have not mentioned a word about Ohio, Florida or Bush dealing with a murder ten years ago. I'm talking about the idiots who are stealing for personal benefit of televisions, jewelry, and such. I admitted already that "looting/finding" food or water is fair game. I also said to "shoot hostile enemies". Not shooting those in search of a way out or food. But when people start opening fire on busses, helicopters and other means of transportation just to start a riot in the middle of the nations worst natural disaster is uncalled for and should be dealt with any way possible. I don't care if a 7 year old "Olsen twin" starts opening fire on people, helicopters, busses, or trucks, she should be tased, shot, or whatever it took to keep her from firing her weapon and endangering lives.

And didn't the countries come together just two months ago and do two very big things for 3rd world countries and pre-dominantly black countries when they:

1. Pardoned billions of dollars to countries of debt owed to our country (mostly African countries)

and

2. Funded millions of dollars for humanitarian relief to millions of Africans

And to comment on the tasing of children in Florida: the six year old boy was about to cut himself up with a piece of glass. Would you rather a shock go through your child and be OK within a matter of minutes or start cutting himself, possibly causing amputation or suicide? The officer did this to protect the child. As for the 12 year old girl, there was no reason, he said he couldn't catch her fleeing from him. He should be in much better shape and reprimanded and possibly discharged from his services
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

You are all missing my point. I did not say to go around randomly opening fire on those trying to survive. I said shoot to kill a hostile enemy. I'll put it out there a little clearer for all of you

hostile: Of, relating to, or characteristic of an enemy: hostile forces; hostile acts.
Unfavorable to health or well-being; inhospitable or adverse: a hostile climate.

n.
An antagonistic person or thing.
An enemy in warfare.

Now that we all know the meaning of hostile, please do not come at me again with the racial card or saying all I want to do is kill those stealing bread and water and fighting to survive.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

Sistablak:
I'm not sure you really said anything worth while. You said I'm ignorant because I'm white (which in itself is pure ignorance).

Stated I am a member of priveleged society (not knowing a damn thing about me, who I am or where I come from - pure ignorance)

And began speaking of slavemasters being murdered before I was born - also suggesting I would support this. Once again, pure ignorance.

Your comments made me think about not even responding because they were full of speculation and untrue comments of something you know absolutely nothing about. But I figured I should respond to yours too or I would be called a racist again; which let's keep in mind, I have said nothing that should make anyone think I am.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

negnegneg says:

rugbyplayer142002 says:
In response to negnegneg...a few things:

1)Wal-Mart dontaed $15million

negnegneg says: It doesn't matter what the amount is. It's hypocritical. And the entire point is moot anyway, due to the fact that the stuff taken from the stores is a total LOSS!!! They wrote it all off first thing Tuesday morning. Do you really think they're going to go down there and try to salvage anything? Get real.

rugbyplayer142002 says:
2)It's not just essentials the people are looting. They're looting jewelry, plasma/flat screens, guns, toys, anything they can get their hands on.

negnegneg says: No one is talking about plasma TVs or jewelry. We are clearly talking about FOOD and ESSENTIALS here. The people who are taking more than they need ARE criminals.

rugbyplayer142002 says:
And trying to defend half of these morons down there is ridiculous. These idiots don't care about human life or survival. They care about what they can get right now for the pure enjoyment of stealing, vandalizing and causing havoc. Shooting at relief helicopters and ambulances is what the same looters are doing...thinking only for themselves or not thinking at all. If they do shoot down the chopper, it's going to be out of service anyway. Do they know how to fly it??? Probably not. So why shoot it down?!?!? Who can sit back and defend any of these morons who just want more trouble in the city.

negnegneg says: You're dumb if you think the criminal acts are taking place by a majority of the people. There are a FEW nuts out there who are being greedy and taking stuff they don't need and hurting people.

rugbyplayer142002 says:
I have family there and lived there for years and know how slummy the place is in many parts.

negnegneg says: Do you know why it's slummy? Because the federal government never bothered to finish the sewage systems needed to make the place habitable. So, the underemployed AND unemployed poor people who had no place else to live had to move there.

rugbyplayer142002 says:
Bush said 30,000 troops will be sent down and I think they have the right to treat it like a war-zone; if you come across a hostile enemy, both foreign and domestic - shoot to kill

negnegneg says:
I'll remember that next time I see you.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

Negnegneg:

1. The amount was posted to correct the previously stated amount of $100k.

2. Obviously I stated "It's not just the essentials..." so I know what we are talking about, I also brought up the fact that people are looting other things than just bread and water. Looting can refer to more than just the essentials.

3. You are correct, I should not have said half. It is only a handful of criminals shooting and acting in more criminal ways than just taking bread & water. I admit I shouldn't have said half, it wasn't meant to be taken litterally. But either way you're correct, not half, but to defend the idiots that are performing these criminal acts of violence, rapes and theft (tv's, jewelry, etc).

4. You say I'm underprivelaged and unemployed while sistablak says I'm in a high society of life. Like I said, I've lived there myself, I still have family there...so am I in a high society or underprivelaged and unemployed (I can't be both, can I?)

5. Next time you see me, I'll have the definition of hostile for you again, you must have missed the last one
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

But I do have to admit, we did get somewhere so far...the ones taking more than survival goods ARE criminals and should be dealt with. I'm not arguing with anyone here, nor am I trying to say you are idiots, morons, or wrong for thinking how you do. So either, 1. Let's have civilized conversations and not get mad and want to kill me. or 2. We'll just leave it alone and go about our happy ways
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Speaker of the House says:

You see Florida, New York, Texas, etc. as isolated incidences. It is your way of rationalizing. I understand. Because these things are happening all over the country by a few individuals it is not a systemic problem.

.....

Now they are terrorists performing terrorists acts? I love the way this new buzz word is thrown around. You know they charged Allen Iverson with committing terrorist acts not too long ago. What an insult to all those people who have died or lost loved ones to real terrorism. How do you know those people aren't firing on authorities because they live with the authorities firing on them daily? How do you know that the same authorities that they are fighting with, weren't harrassing them and beating them up throughout the years prior to this disaster. You assume that the police force in N.O. is benevolent and kind... aka Officer Friendly. I've never witnessed such a police force in any impoverished area.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to justify the behavior. But I think you need to be a bit more insightful before you start throwing around labels light terrorists and enemy. These people are American citizens and should be treated as such. For all you know, they are sick and tired of having their civil rights violated and picked this moment to "fight back".

.........

The fact is that the very people that we are discussing have no voice. They don't have computers and they can't let you or any of us know what is really going on down there and what motivates them to do what they do.

....

Finally, there is no such thing as "the race card". The "race card" is a myth much like the loch ness monster. The phrase "race card" is used as a defense mechanism for those who want to pretend that police kill black kids because they are all bad and deserved to be killed. ...not because the racism and racist attitudes in this country make them feel that it is ok to do so.

There are no "enemies" in New Orleans right now. There are only people struggling to survive. With regard to the "criminal element" that existed prior to this disaster and logically continues to exist, many are simply underpriveleged and misguided youths who more than likely would have chosen a better path were they given half the chance.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Speaker of the House says:

All of the articles that I've read say that W has drastically reduced the amount of AID that America will provide.

In fact, he has denied Blair's request that the US take a leadership role is his (Blair's) proposal of landmark amounts of humanitarian aid.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Learningmoreeveryday says:

Rugby, 100% of the people there are not raping and shooting at the helicopters.I dont defend the criminal acts but if you never had anything in life(i.e money, education, and placed in a class system that does not let you succeed and made to feel like your not worth the dirt you walk on from years of slavery, discrimination and racism)it doesnt surprise me that a some of these people(my people) are going crazy. Its like get what you can when you can(looting). Also,Just because some intelligent people point out signs of possible racism(i.e the photos and the slow response to rescue people) doesnt mean we defend the crimes. In every race there are criminals and crazy people. What bothers me is that people will look at the news and lump the criminals with those who are just trying to survive. But as i stated before the powers that be indirectly created this situation of looting for electronics hundreds of years ago.
Shooting at helicpoters is quite a strange story. How come we havent heard from the pilot or someone on the chopper(unless i missed it, sorry). They've interviewed everyone else under the sun..... twice even. maybe someone was shooting to get the rescuers attention to be saved. I dont know. All i know is if my baby died in my arms after 4 days because of no food and water in 100 degree weather i might go crazy myself. Hopefullly this event will raise everyones social conciousness.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Speaker of the House says:

Rugby,

I don't think that you should be shot. I don't have any reason to believe that you are a racist ...at least not intentionally.

If anything, you don't have insight into how other races in America are affected by the behavior of its institutions, including the media and the authorities.

You have my respect for engaging in this dialogue. I don't wish any harm to befall you or your family. You sound like a decent human being.

My personal opinion is that you should cautious about making sweeping statements and labeling people "the enemy" or "terrorists". It is exactly this thought pattern that has gotten many a young black male murdered by the authorities.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

dishecasmith says:

Rugbyplayer you are obvisouly (spell check) missing the point These people would rather be rescued than, being stuck in a place and can't get out and help don't seem to be on its way. These wounld not rather stay there and start riots they would rather have, food , water, shelter and know that they are going to survive this but they don't. But obviously you look at things from face value. All of this is a cry for help. If you had a family member who is about to die. Or better yet a baby who has not eaten in 4 days and need milk. and you see buses and airplanes coming to rescue other but your baby is about to die then you would do everything in your power to cry for help. They are mad and upset and feel like they have been left there to die. They pissed off and don't care. Thats why they are robbing and car jacking, everyone is trying to survive and get out. Just to clear it up we do know they did not offer transportation out of the city for those low income people because they would have said they did by now. They always tend to announce things on the news and at press conferences when they feel they are helping. Its funny, that was never mentioned. and lets be real the low income white folks now a days are apart of the minority so don't try to make it seem like its something that its is not. Because those people who are left there who are not in the minority popular, they are their because they are in the what they call the helping profession. They had to stay if they could they would have left also. So lets be real about the situtation and stop trying to sugar coat things.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

robdavis sc says:

After reading all of the post I see that some of you have valid points and some of you are pertraying yourselves as idiots. The point I would like to make is that the pics and captions were both done by two different entities. In most of the post you are making it seem as if one person purposely placed labels on these pics. If you go back and read the statement posted by the person who took the pic of the fair skined couple he states that there were both black and white folks grabbing stuff as it was floating by.

What we all need to be aware of is that yes racism still exist in every american be it white, black ,chinese, indian etc. But we (black people) will always be more sensitive to these issues due to several hundred years of oppression. Now to my people I must say now is not the time to fight this battle now is the time for us to stop talking and begin helping.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

negnegneg says:

RUGBY:
1. The amount was posted to correct the previously stated amount of $100k.

NEGNEGNEG:
The orginal figure was just a general figure. I didn't know the exact amount, and they will probably give much more than 15MM.

RUGBY:
2. Obviously I stated "It's not just the essentials..." so I know what we are talking about, I also brought up the fact that people are looting other things than just bread and water. Looting can refer to more than just the essentials.

NEGNEGNEG:
In my opinion, looting refers to taking things that are not essential during an emergency situation. i.e.:
STEALING: I am comfortably at home right now and hungry. I go to Wendy's and tell them to give me a Jr. Bacon cheeseburger and I refuse to pay for it.

LOOTING: During a riot, I break open a window and steal 5 gold chains.

SURVIVING: During a catastrophe, my son has no food or diapers, and my mother and I haven't eaten in 3 days, so I go into a store and get some formula, diapers, bread, and meat that's going to spoil whether I take it or not.

RUGBY:
4. You say I'm underprivelaged and unemployed while sistablak says I'm in a high society of life. Like I said, I've lived there myself, I still have family there...so am I in a high society or underprivelaged and unemployed (I can't be both, can I?)

NEGNEGNEG:
You did not read my post closley enough. I did not say YOU are underemployed/unemployed, I said most of the people staying in those poor neighborhoods were.

RUGBY:
5. Next time you see me, I'll have the definition of hostile for you again, you must have missed the last one

NEGNEGNEG:
I admit my statement "I'll remember that next time I see you." was a little hostile, but I'm just frustrated that there actually people in this world who think like you do. It really shows how much further we have to go with race relations.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

This is an article about some of the shootings in NOLA.
www.cnn.com/2005/WEATHER/09/01/katrina.hospit al.sniper/in...

terrorism: The unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence by a person or an organized group against people or property with the intention of intimidating or coercing societies or governments, often for ideological or political reasons.

terrorist: One that engages in acts or an act of terrorism

Those are the dictionary terms. Also, when you join the military you are sworn to take action against terrorist both foreign and domestic.

Now, I agree that these people were not planned Al Queda cells put there to cause harm to the American people, but this is what they have become - terrorist.

They are attacking military personel, police officials, etc. If they want to unleash a wrath of anger kept in for years, they have picked the wrong time to do it. They are endagering the lives of thousands and indirectly responsible for deaths already occured.

Also, speaking that the people of NOLA act the way they do is because the officers made them do it is like arguing which came first, the chicken or the egg. Do the citizens act like this because of the cops, or do cops take drastic measures because of crime that happened first? I'm not answering that, because I simply do not know. I have not put enough time into the research of New Orleans criminal history to know the answer.

Also, once again, I am not singling out any race, creed, religions, etc. I am simply stating the people of NOLA and/or the people doing the firing on rescue crafts and those looting and stealing from others. We have laws in this country for a reason. Theft is theft whether it's in the midst of a natural disaster or a normal sunny day. Just because disaster has struck, does this give them the right to steal (talking about the tv's not food for survival)?

For those who say who cares it's all busted nothing is any good anyway...they're not just looting items that aren't any good. They're taking jewelry and stuff that doesn't get hurt by water. They're taking from the stores that aren't full of water. Pushing shopping carts around wal-mart with thousands of dollars worth of stolen property...it's not just broken, soaked items
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

Neg, please show me just once where I have made this a one-race conversation.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

Dish,
I'm really not sure what you are trying to say, and I don't mean that to be rude at all. I never have once in the entire conversation stated that it's only blacks, whites, minorities, or anything. I have said they are general public of all races.

Now that you have posed a question to me, let me ask you something...
If your baby had not eaten in days and is on the verge of dying, and you see a helicopter or boat full of military personel, volunteers or those delivering necessities, would open fire on them?

That is what I'm talking about. Again, I will say it, I am not arguing about those trying to survive and taking food or water or diapers or formula. I am talking directly about those who steal tv's, jewelry, etc. and those who fire on authorities trying to get help to those in need of it.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

negnegneg says:

I don't understand your question. I am merely talking about the fact that some people White AND Black have blinders on and act like the big pink elephant in the corner isn't there. Once it's acknowledged, we can start doing something about it.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

negnegneg says:

RUGBY to DISH:
Now that you have posed a question to me, let me ask you something...
If your baby had not eaten in days and is on the verge of dying, and you see a helicopter or boat full of military personel, volunteers or those delivering necessities, would open fire on them?

NEGNEGNEG:
It's not the mother who's doing it. It's some nutt who probably should have been locked up a long time ago...on the other hand, it could also be someone who's so desperate that they want attention to get out of that heck hole. Either way, it's unacceptable behavior.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

rugbyplayer142002 says:

TO EVERYONE:
I have enjoyed the conversation and I'm sorry we had to have it (because of such a disaster). I hope you all have a great Labor Day weekend and no matter if you're taking sides, or one-sided or just on the fence about things. Please keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers. If you can help out in any way possible, please do. They need money, blood, clothing, food, etc. I'm heading out for the weekend. It honestly has been an insightful conversation and I hope everything from racism, to shootings, to the hurrican victims can be helped. Thank you to those who could carry a conversation with valid points...whether I agree or not, that's the point of debate.

God Bless!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

ADreamer says:

Please take a look at this website and see yet another example of the bias, prejudice, and racism that the "media" portrays. See, www.salon.com/news/feature/2005/09/01/photo_c ontroversy/?x. The third picture further illustrates the slant on race. It is clear that the White male is AT the abandoned store WITH a bag, but there is no "looting" in the description. He's just merely looking through his shopping bag, as if the abandoned store had a cashier and he recently purchased the items with the money he just got out of the ATM. (If I was born yesterday, I may believe that). To make it worse, the picture was published by the AP! So, both arguments re: that the Black youth was seen at the store, and there are two different news publishers/editors makes no sense anymore. It's a shame that Black America has to endure so much, and still get treated like black sheep under the covert guise that "Black people are trying to take over." I'm sick of hearing that. What's more like it is Black people are trying to LIVE/SURVIVE in this country that hasn't shown it cares for Blacks as much as it does for other races/nationalities. Not to say I'm surprised, but it's ridiculous that the feds are dragging their feet on national t.v. while much of mainstream media helps dogs the Black race. By the way, who is the Governor of Louisianna??? I haven't heard his/her name or seen them mentioned in any news report. When 9/11 hit, Bush, the NY Governor and NY Mayor were all over the news...
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Joe CRUD says:

I know this may be hard for some to swallow, but is it possible that the person who happens to be darker in color did, in fact, "LOOT" a store, and the person who happens to have lighter skin did, in fact, "FIND" the bread and soda floating in the water or something? I wasn't there, so I don't know. I do know that either scenario is just as possible as the racism scenario. I wonder if anyone would have noticed had the captions been reversed? Next to the fact that about 90 thousand square miles of the country has been virtually gutted, this argument seems rather petty to me.
Call it what you like. In my opinion if someone needs to "LOOT", or "FIND" food or clothing to survive from stores that are only going to claim those products as losses to their insurance companies, then please do it. However, if you're wading through knee deep water to steal a TV, you're pathetic. If you feel you're doing what you need to survive by killing a man who opened up his grocery store to hand out it's contents for free to those in need because you wanted his money too, you deserve every bullet you get.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

sophiawright2005 says:

randommaniamiam, you stated "By saying that is racist, you are saying "obviously the people behind this want to commit genocide and wipe all blacks from the face of the Earth"

Based on your definition I would say this situation is racist. Every situation dealing with blacks in and out of America is one that is wiping blacks from the face of the Earth. Both national and foreign policy by this government is one that consistently contributes to the demise and eventually the genocide of blacks every where. You trust this government to not be racist? Give me a break. This government has committed genocide (think back to Columbus days) and I do not put my trust in a government that will blatantly lie to start an unjust war. Yes, different situations but I see the connections because it is a question of valuing all human life not just some, and it always seems that our government supports decisions that devalues the life of people who in their minds were unfortunate to not be born with white skin. All I have to do is take a look at the ghettos (government built), prisons, and our schools, foreign policy towards predominantly black countries to see this government does not give a hoot about any one in the black race. The only reason we have “rights” in this country is because of the fakeness of the government wanting to be PC. The situation in New Orleans is in our face. Decisions by our government were made that led up to this disaster. The government decided it wasn’t on the top of their agenda to ensure the safety of those living in New Orleans. When the city asked for money to secure the levies they got a big fat no and a cut in their budget. Interestingly enough this is a predominantly black populated city. Should we be shocked that ensuring the safety of black citizens was not on the top of the list of our government?? Would we be seeing the same images if this happened in San Francisco? Well, now they can’t cover it up because people are screaming for help, and guess what they are mostly BLACK people. I recognize that there are other groups who are stuggling through this horrific event, but the bottom line is that the response would have been different if the demographics were different. I have little confidence that a country that would support and encourage slavery and now a days oppression through class will EVER be a country where we are all treated as equals and as brothers and sisters.

I pray that something good comes out of this mess.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

asawaa says:

To some, this bias is shocking.
to others, it is not suprising at all...
This is what happens when folks with access to media and a "white is right" attitude come together.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

zithertoo says:

Wow, so much back and forth on this. First it's shame,then people need to "get over" this whole racism thing, then it's not racism it's bias, then it IS racism, then we need to all shut up and "think about the children"...

I can't speak for everyone else but, the reason the captions disturb me is because of the different wording for what is basically the same image and almost identical sentences.

the fact that the photos were taken by different Photogs AND posted by different news services drives home the racial biases that are still very prevalent in this country (and the world).

Someone, somewhere captioned each photo based on what they assumed was happening in the frame or what the photographer told them was happening.

If the captions are the result of the former, then it was the captioner's bias at work.

If it was the latter, then it was the photographer's.

And it is more than just a simple matter of semantics.

Loot implies violence and greed. People taking things just because there's noone around to stop them, not becuase they actually need it.

Find implies lucky circumstance.

On word has negative connotations, the other positive.

When the bottom line is, people are TAKING/GETTING/FINDING whatever food and water they can from where ever they can. And all captions should reflect that.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Achanti - Dallas Tx says:

Lets just face it people. Racism still exist. It always will. Even though the captions were written by two separate individuals, it seems that the caption about the "two residents" was carefully written as it's purpose is to gain empathy at the least for the poor souls that are "wading" through these high waters. Whereas the one about the young man walking through the chest high water after looting a grocery store is at least a racial biased comment. Even if they weren't trying to be racist and it's just "came out that way". Which only further supports my belief that most of us (the human race) are racist, even when we aren't trying to be. Its a struggle that we must face and change within ourselves before we can attempt to correct anyone else. It is sad that we have come this far yet progressed so little. But the only way we can make this world a better place is to better ourselves. Black, African (and yes there is a difference) White, Hispanic, Oriental, Jewish.. whoever. It starts in our home, with our children, but mainly in our hearts.

As far as the SURVIVORS are concerned. If they have to loot,/find, take/grab or steal/borrow to maintain, then that's just what they need to do. I suggest they stay at that Wal-Mart whose doors just happened to be opened, go to the sporting goods section, find some type of floating device for themselves.. go on to the storing section and get some of those really big tubs and fill them with food, medicine and toiletries, fresh clothing, flash lights, blankets and anything else that may be of assistance to them there. Since us outsiders, are more worried about upholding the law rather than saving lives. Looting just may be the first class ticket to being rescued.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

GtBannas says:

I said a prayer for all of you who missed the big picture. Yes, "finding" is just as wrong as "looting". Sure it is racism to caption pictures selectively, but by crying about that, what exactly have you done to help someone live through this disaster?
Look, go "find" the nearest Walmart or Sams Club and make a donation to the Red Cross.
I promise, after doing so you will not go to bed angry tonight!
I won't!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Achanti - Dallas Tx says:

For any of you that are in Dallas/Forth Worth area. There are a lot of different organizations and just groups of caring individuals doing what they can to help those refugees that have made it from LA. My family, friends and myself have "adopted about 20 different families and are trying to support them in anyway we can. We are having a car wash this Saturday to raise more money in order to get more clothing, school supplies, and much needed itmes for these families who range from 2-5 to 10-20+ members each. Some are staying in hotels and others are in our homes. If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and wish to put your money where your mouth is.. come on out and lend a hand. you may email me at achantishantrell@yahoo.com for more information. and furthermore.. lets just put our differences aside for right now and get on our knee's and pray. Pray for mercy on us as well as these people. For we have not even touched the surface of the plagues and curses that are to come upon this earth.

God Bless You All
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

~Nic Nac~ says:

www.atypical.net/mm/nagin.mp3
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Tricia Wang 王圣捷  says:

I am amazed at the number of comments on this page - how did everyone come across this post? A Bulletin board, a blog, random search?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

de_nece says:

THanks for showing us that the USA sucks! Its ok for black poor people, poor white people, to die. Those white people i guess are just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Next time remember. If a hurricane or any natural disaster is coming...get away from blacks. Because that's where the help repellant will be.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

boxcar1201 says:

2005 and we are still attacking people because of race. Better hurray and get to New Orleans (my home town) and save all the whites and let the blacks die. Or better yet, send robinson down there and let him preach his terrorist tactics on assassination. That's sure to get all the people there to thinking in commonality.

No, I'm not the least bit surprised at how the American News media protray the citizens of this country. Here we have a time of crisis and the sorry B... can only look at skin color.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

ldora2000 says:

LDORA:
Hey iizuhignantnigguh, why is it that no one responded to your question? I bet you could scream it in front of a crowded room, there'd be a dead pause, then people would resume arguing over racism. Racism sucks no doubt. But I sense the racism issue is a morsel tossed out by an entity, that keeps us little people (black/white and other groups) occupied. I believe their is a larger issue $$$$ at hand. While we spend time trying to resolve the racism riddle (when will it end? how will it end?, why won't it end? or Racism is gone, why do you people keep fussing?) a few people are making BIG MONEY, because the class issue has not been addressed-can we argue about it without being accused of being unAmerican? Its easier to avoid its existence.
Media informs us, it also keeps us preoccupied. Lets support the survivors, lets address inequity in news reports, but lets also address how this president who is an oilman, can personally benefit from the war in Iraq, and the gas prices over $3.50 a gallon.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

abhijit_marathe says:

I am of Asian heritage and reside in India. Having lived in the US for ten years I have a good understanding of the emotions involved here. Extending the discussion on racism (which is abhorrent) a little further, should we eventually destroy borders between countries, like we are trying to for different races ? Should religion become a non-issue ? Why should a person from Africa not be allowed to travel and reside in the US if he wants to ? If differentiating on the basis of color is wrong, is differentiation on the basis of place of birth (again something one has no control over) correct ? A lot of people will deride these questions but its food for thought, and something I believe mankind will eventually move towards. Just like John Lennon imagined.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Pa pale la says:

I can't believe this!!! People why don't you learn to read and understand what you read before reacting to something. If anything this shows how easily the people can be manipulated.
The pictures and captions where taken and written by 2 different journalists! And it's funny how the one getting reprimanded here is the journalist who did the right thing by labeling what he saw down there a simple human act of finding relief in a time of crisis while the one who called this looting is not reprimanded.
Again these were written by 2 different people.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

I'd like to comment on some observations regarding statements made by Rugbyplayer---he stated he was from the NO area. Now, if only that time had been spent looking at NO from the black perspective.

If he had, then he would PERSONALLY have seen that NO has one of the MOST thoroughly corrupt police forces in the US. This has been their reputation LONG BEFORE this mishap. Add to that corruption: bullying, brutal, sadistic cops who prey on the poor blacks within those same communities with illegal traffic stops, beatings, questionable arrests, rapes---yes, I said it--rapes, contraband placed on individuals--you name it, often, with that same, blind-logic you utilize to justify their deeds. Have you not asked yourself the question,'Rugby'--WHY did the police's first order of business became protecting their precinct houses? And WHY aren't the media (who are quick to point out black CIVILIAN mis-deeds, are NOT out there trying to get this "hot" story for the masses----you're talking Pulitzer country here, BOY!? Had you seen NO this way, then you would have known that for decades---these same 'officers' push buttons during CIVIL times---its not much of a stretch to imagine that somewhere, some cop, pushed the wrong person at the wrong time and shots ensued afterwards. I AM from NO (with friends and family still there) and I can tell you, 'Rugby' that a great deal of the so-called shootings were from poor, entrapped, people trying to get the attention of officials!! Why haven't you seen these invisible 'authority-figures' who were shot at? Why no first-hand accounts of lucky survivors on FOX(who would happily over-kill this exposure-wise) of those who are 'angrily storming thru the streets firing AK-47's (??!!?)---by the way--HOW do they know this? Because, "Rugby", it was the cowardly, long-distanced, reporting media who initiated these 'accounts'. These 'reporters' are placed in specifically calculated positions---to be sure, SAFELY tucked away from dangers path---so this forces them to have to resort to a lot of gossip, false accounts and some individuals who don't have a clue!! NOBODY was going to go personally and investigate these statements---would you--'Rugby'?; They were (for content) regurgitating panicked comments from traumatized people RUNNING from those areas (in law, we call this 'hearsay') you can call it pitiful reporting!! The hospital incident, I'm told, was something personal and not directed at the doctors OR hospital staff(possibly wrong-time, wrong-place). I am not making excuses for my people (there is no need too), I'm simply pointing out some hard realities that make it highly unlikely YOU, 'Rugby' are from the same perspective as my people. Why its akin to me assuming about you, 'Rugby", that no one from a lower socio-economic class has seldom (if ever) PLAYED (or would ever call himself 'Rugby')----unless he aspired to the social class that typically does such things. So are you there IN that class, 'Rugby'--or are you just a wannabee?? (Like a great deal of southern white men who USE to be Democrats (wrecking racial mis-deeds) and thought it would be more socially expedient if they could be like their doctor, lawyer, banker, et.al, if they became Repubs---in this ignorance--they have made poor, white trash like you, vote against your own class interests---see? maybe, you're not so different from those 'idiots' you referred to in your 1st post)-----You see how inane your generalizations about the 'terrorists' in the streets of NO are to me!!??! We can all play them. The danger here is that with your limited perspective you are making shoot-to-kill, life and death comments based on the flimsiest factual data. THIS is what raises the bile in my throat when I see/read the ignorant, baseless, comments you white-men make, based on no more than your own fears, sexual/inferiority complexes,and the predatory, manipulative proganda-izing by outlets like FOX. Some of you are so smug in your arrogant, elitist, self aggrandizing 'holes' of pretzel logic (and morality), that you and your ilk settle for curt, media-packaged judgements from afar that seriously clouds your ability to compassionately put yourself in others postions or states. This 'littleman'/'cowboy, unapologetic mentality is EXACTLY what that delusional creep Bush suffers from, and rather than see it for what it is---you fellow chicken-hawk, pseudo-cowards think its an admirable trait!! God, WAKE UP!! You (some white men in America) NEVER stop to contemplate WHY so many in the world literally HATE you-----sure, you all sit back and rationalize its because you're the 'big dog' on the block--and they all fear you, or you listen to that idiot in the White House convince you all via the media that they hate you for your 'freedom' or because you love 'liberty'---you and those who think like you are slowly, but surely, painting yourselves into the tightest corner of the global house---and you won't have enough guns and missiles to 'control' or 'maintain' YOUR perception of "law and order'---you flirt with insanity and don't even know it!

I personally saw the genesis of this propaganda. FOX's O'Reilly Show studio commentator(not O'Reilly) was interviewing a young, roving, in-the-field commentator who had prevously been talking about the staggering effect of the flood on NO citizens. The studio guy (steering it to what has become FOX's main agenda thrust) asked him---'what about the 'looters' behind you there?' The field guy said, "I wouldn't necessarily characterize it as 'looting', what you see here are desperate people TRYING to find anything of substance to SURVIVE on---they're taking infant formula, food, bottled water..." the studio guy humphed, shut him down and closed it! Approximately an hour later, the STUDIO guy re-iterated what the field guy had said, but now, the complete tone had changed!---He put the 'looting', 'thug', etc, spin on it-----and FROM THAT POINT ON----FOX had what it needed----a suitable 'spin' to accommodate the prejudices (and fears) that IT KNOWS permeates the ignorant, fearful, brain-washed "law-abiding" audiences it caters too. CNN is equally at fault in a completely different way----its announcer (Lou Dobbs) was asking a strikingly beautiful Black, female commentator (Lisa Sylvester--?)--that 'many are 'pointing fingers' at Bush and the federal government----we heard the Mayors rant---do you think they (NO's Black leadership)have any responsibility for what happened (the delay of help)---", had CNN hired a REAL sister who genuinely still had a connection to the black community and was not reporting from a STUDIO in Washington, DC--MIGHT have been able to respond to him with a sense of black awareness. Then she could have pointed out that black officials in NO (AND Louisiana) have been petitioning (for years!!) the US government in DC for infra-structure assistance--of all sorts, They have succeeded in this (in a limited way) and was granted government funding for a shore-up of the levee system---then YOUR beloved president, has on three different occasions, cut those finds by a total of 55%, diverting those funds to his pet project in Iraq--(can you say REBUILD Iraq)? the CNN 'face' COULD HAVE commented that Louisiana is a 'Blue State' with a Democratic governor---therefore, prime pickings for ANY budgetary slashes needed; She COULD HAVE added that recently, YOUR president engineered a heavily pork-laden bill that includes (among other ridiculous entries) building a multi-million dollar bridge in a REPUBLICAN rep's district in Alaska leading to nowhere for a village of 70 PEOPLE! She COULD HAVE said that it will ultimately be the fault of the local, black leadership because Bush's administration only succeeds at one thing, i.e., finding someone else to blame! Then they won't HAVE to explain little things like Condy Rice (THE SECRETARY OF STATE) shoe-shopping in D.C.--three days AFTER the flood; while Bush will be kissing as many black babies as his handlers can find for him---mind you---they will be clean and photogenic!!

Now, I'M FORCED to continue to watch MY LOVED ONES and others suffer, while this fool turns their tragedy into a photo-opt for himself; AFTER his handlers have TOLD him: what to say and how to portray. AFTER he FINALLY decided to cut short a FIVE WEEK vacation----the next day!
Now, MY PEOPLE who have lived all of their lives in NO are called 'refugees' in the land of their birth!! (This helps your kind because now you can de-personalize them and catagorize them as 'those people'---not 'us', or 'we' or 'US citizens'--its all so very typical----SAD!! I seem to recall the definition of refugees as being "someone who flees to ANOTHER COUNTRY to escape invasion, persecution or oppression"---clearly, 'Rugby'--there is no truth in advertising or 'fair and balanced' reporting deriving from the media sources you use as the basis for your simple, ill-thought out observations---if you think I'm wrong, watch how this will play out in weeks to come----YOUR president (and the media) will positively portray the smooth running of operations in the Repub-ran state of Miss., and will contrast this to the 'mess' that the Democratic governor is leading in La.-------its too bad you don't read more realities from other sources, or you would not be so quick to pick up guns and holler------shoot to kill. Its clear to me that there is more than one village in Texas (and wherever you're from) missing its idiot.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

alexandercuk says:

As a white male from the UK I just donated to the relief effort. I don't have a lot of money but I also don't care whether it goes to someone black, white, or purple with yellow dots. We are talking about people here and in desperate times people do desperate things. I find it hard to understand why someone would steal anything other than food, drinks, clothes or everyday articles neccessary to survive. Try living on a diet of jewellery for a week!

I just think it's really sad to see people turning on each other in malicious accusation when it would be far more constructive and beneficial to work together to put this terrible situation right. Maybe if some of the people here spent less time pointing fingers and got off their backside to do something to help...it would help to mend everything that is wrong in society when it comes to prejudicial views.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

ismhatthisworld says:

unbelieveable! if everyone take all this passion that is being used to type out hate, anger,and ignorance on your pc and redirect it into positive phycial energy in your communities, the world just MIGHT find some way to get along.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

Ya know, Alexander and ismhatthisworld------if you two had taken some of that 'we are the world' energy, say, 5,10 or 20 years ago and effected some change in YOUR breathren--- NONE of these entries would be necessary! Everytime Black people call you out for 'taking some responsibility' for LETTING your fellow white people (and possibly your ostrich mentality at crucial times) act out inhumane deeds around the world----you all drag out that same ol' tired coke theme!

We have to constantly suffer your peoples daily inferences about how we (black men) are supposedly 'irresponsible'---when the shoes on the other foot--you all fall back on your 'we all should be better than this' mode----if you feel that way----get off YOUR asses and direct some passion toward changing the warped souls of some of your people.

Oh, and Alex----stop braggin' about 'your donations, etc.', in many Black peoples belief system---one does not announce his 'alms' (givings)----'before the public' (Matt 6)--you defeat (lose), your blessings---as seen by God. Some do plenty---its just not important to talk about it! Once again, you guys KEEP making assumptions you know whats best 'for the world'. Anyway---thanks for the assistance, your heart is in the right place---even if your mis-educated mind still needs light! As far as the jewelry et.al. goes----sure, there is some plain ol' thievery going on, undeniably-----but, for most, those "inedible" items you and the media keep pointing out are items for bartering should you get out of NO alive and (for some reason---I simply can't imagine what) feel compelled to have to start a new life over again, well, they MAY come in handy-----think about it.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

anunnakione says:

Oh-----one last tidbit, Alex----you Europeans (and white Americans) are FAMOUS for pointing out how something has been 'stolen' from you all-----have you asked yourself this-----WHERE did trinkets (like those diamonds) come from originally?? and whose people dug them out of the mines of Africa?? I'd venture to say, the so-called 'thieves' you see in NO are more closely related to the original owners of those diamonds, than the shop owners you all feel were so egregiously mis-treated!
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

Tricia Wang 王圣捷  says:

Notes From Inside New Orleans

by Jordan Flaherty

Friday, September 2, 2005

I just left New Orleans a couple hours ago. I traveled from the apartment I was staying in by boat to a helicopter to a refugee camp. If anyone wants to examine the attitude of federal and state officials towards the victims of hurricane Katrina, I advise you to visit one of the refugee camps.

In the refugee camp I just left, on the I-10 freeway near Causeway, thousands of people (at least 90% black and poor) stood and squatted in mud and trash behind metal barricades, under an unforgiving sun, with heavily armed soldiers standing guard over them. When a bus would come through, it would stop at a random spot, state police would open a gap in one of the barricades, and people would rush for the bus, with no information given about where the bus was going. Once inside (we were told) evacuees would be told where the bus was taking them - Baton Rouge, Houston, Arkansas, Dallas, or other locations. I was told that if you boarded a bus bound for Arkansas (for example), even people with family and a place to stay in Baton Rouge would not be allowed to get out of the bus as it passed through Baton Rouge. You had no choice but to go to the shelter in Arkansas. If you had people willing to come to New Orleans to pick you up, they could not come within 17 miles of the camp.

I traveled throughout the camp and spoke to Red Cross workers, Salvation Army workers, National Guard, and state police, and although they were friendly, no one could give me any details on when buses would arrive, how many, where they would go to, or any other information. I spoke to the several teams of journalists nearby, and asked if any of them had been able to get any information from any federal or state officials on any of these questions, and all of them, from Australian tv to local Fox affiliates complained of an unorganized, non-communicative, mess. One cameraman told me "as someone who's been here in this camp for two days, the only information I can give you is this: get out by nightfall. You don't want to be here at night." There was also no visible attempt by any of those running the camp to set up any sort of transparent and consistent system, for instance a line to get on buses, a way to register contact information or find family members, special needs services for children and infirm, phone services, treatment for possible disease exposure, nor even a single trash can.

To understand the dimensions of this tragedy, its important to look at New Orleans itself.

For those who have not lived in New Orleans, you have missed a incredible, glorious, vital, city. A place with a culture and energy unlike anywhere else in the world. A 70% African-American city where resistance to white supremacy has supported a generous, subversive and unique culture of vivid beauty. From jazz, blues and hiphop, to secondlines, Mardi Gras Indians, Parades, Beads, Jazz Funerals, and red beans and rice on Monday nights, New Orleans is a place of art and music and dance and sexuality and liberation unlike anywhere else in the world.

It is a city of kindness and hospitality, where walking down the block can take two hours because you stop and talk to someone on every porch, and where a community pulls together when someone is in need. It is a city of extended families and social networks filling the gaps left by city, state and federal governments that have abdicated their responsibility for the public welfare. It is a city where someone you walk past on the street not only asks how you are, they wait for an answer.

It is also a city of exploitation and segregation and fear. The city of New Orleans has a population of just over 500,000 and was expecting 300 murders this year, most of them centered on just a few, overwhelmingly black, neighborhoods. Police have been quoted as saying that they don't need to search out the perpetrators, because usually a few days after a shooting, the attacker is shot in revenge.

There is an atmosphere of intense hostility and distrust between much of Black New Orleans and the N.O. Police Department. In recent months, officers have been accused of everything from drug running to corruption to theft. In separate incidents, two New Orleans police officers were recently charged with rape (while in uniform), and there have been several high profile police killings of unarmed youth, including the murder of Jenard Thomas, which has inspired ongoing weekly protests for several months.

The city has a 40% illiteracy rate, and over 50% of black ninth graders will not graduate in four years. Louisiana spends on average $4,724 per child's education and ranks 48th in the country for lowest teacher salaries. The equivalent of more than two classrooms of young people drop out of Louisiana schools every day and about 50,000 students are absent from school on any given day. Far too many young black men from New Orleans end up enslaved in Angola Prison, a former slave plantation where inmates still do manual farm labor, and over 90% of inmates eventually die in the prison. It is a city where industry has left, and most remaining jobs are are low-paying, transient, insecure jobs in the service economy.

Race has always been the undercurrent of Louisiana politics. This disaster is one that was
constructed out of racism, neglect and incompetence. Hurricane Katrina was the inevitable spark
igniting the gasoline of cruelty and corruption. From the neighborhoods left most at risk, to the
treatment of the refugees to the the media portrayal of the victims, this disaster is shaped by race.

Louisiana politics is famously corrupt, but with the tragedies of this week our political leaders have defined a new level of incompetence. As hurricane Katrina approached, our Governor urged us to "Pray the hurricane down" to a level two. Trapped in a building two days after the hurricane, we tuned our battery-operated radio into local radio and tv stations, hoping for vital news, and were told that our governor had called for a day of prayer. As rumors and panic began to rule, they was no source of solid dependable information. Tuesday night, politicians and reporters said the water level would rise another 12 feet - instead it stabilized. Rumors spread like wildfire, and the politicians and media only made it worse.

While the rich escaped New Orleans, those with nowhere to go and no way to get there were left
behind. Adding salt to the wound, the local and national media have spent the last week demonizing those left behind. As someone that loves New Orleans and the people in it, this is the part of this tragedy that hurts me the most, and it hurts me deeply.

No sane person should classify someone who takes food from indefinitely closed stores in a
desperate, starving city as a "looter," but that's just what the media did over and over again. Sheriffs and politicians talked of having troops protect stores instead of perform rescue operations.

Images of New Orleans' hurricane-ravaged population were transformed into black, out-of-control,
criminals. As if taking a stereo from a store that will clearly be insured against loss is a greater crime than the governmental neglect and incompetence that did billions of dollars of damage and
destroyed a city. This media focus is a tactic, just as the eighties focus on "welfare queens" and
"super-predators" obscured the simultaneous and much larger crimes of the Savings and Loan
scams and mass layoffs, the hyper-exploited people of New Orleans are being used as a scapegoat to cover up much larger crimes.

City, state and national politicians are the real criminals here. Since at least the mid-1800s, its been widely known the danger faced by flooding to New Orleans. The flood of 1927, which, like this week's events, was more about politics and racism than any kind of natural disaster, illustrated exactly the danger faced. Yet government officials have consistently refused to spend the money to protect this poor, overwhelmingly black, city. While FEMA and others warned of the urgent impending danger to New Orleans and put forward proposals for funding to reinforce and protect the city, the Bush administration, in every year since 2001, has cut or refused to fund New Orleans flood control, and ignored scientists warnings of increased hurricanes as a result of global warming. And, as the dangers rose with the floodlines, the lack of coordinated response dramatized vividly the callous disregard of our elected leaders.

The aftermath from the 1927 flood helped shape the elections of both a US President and a
Governor, and ushered in the southern populist politics of Huey Long.

In the coming months, billions of dollars will likely flood into New Orleans. This money can either be spent to usher in a "New Deal" for the city, with public investment, creation of stable union jobs, new schools, cultural programs and housing restoration, or the city can be "rebuilt and revitalized" to a shell of its former self, with newer hotels, more casinos, and with chain stores and theme parks replacing the former neighborhoods, cultural centers and corner jazz clubs.

Long before Katrina, New Orleans was hit by a hurricane of poverty, racism, disinvestment,
deindustrialization and corruption. Simply the damage from this pre-Katrina hurricane will take
billions to repair.

Now that the money is flowing in, and the world's eyes are focused on Katrina, its vital that
progressive-minded people take this opportunity to fight for a rebuilding with justice. New Orleans is a special place, and we need to fight for its rebirth.

------------------------------------------- ----
Jordan Flaherty is a union organizer and an editor of Left Turn Magazine (www.leftturn.org). He is not planning on moving out of New Orleans.

------------------------------------------- ----

Below are some small, grassroots and New Orleans-based resources, organizations and institutions that will need your support in the coming months.

Social Justice:
www.jjpl.org
www.iftheycanlearn.org
www.nolaps.org
www.thepeoplesinstitute.org/
www.criticalresistance.org/index.php?name=crn o_home

Cultural Resources:
www.backstreetculturalmuseum.com
www.ashecac.org/
198.66.50.128/gallery/
www.nolahumanrights.org
www.freewebs.com/ironrail/
www.girlgangproductions.com/

Current Info and Resources:
neworleans.craigslist.org/about/help/katrina_ cl.html
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

tiffj01 says:

America, because citizens of the U.S. would like to assume that we livein a perfect society, the mention of racism in today's society is considered non exist. I encourage America to look at the truth. Racism is still VERY prevalent in today's society and the issue with those individuals not being rescued in New Orleans is certainly racist in my opinion. ALthough I would like to assume that the U.S. is going to help all the vitcims in need due to Hurricane Katrina, but I have not seen a full fledged initiative taken by the U.S. goverment.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

alexandercuk says:

I understand the comments above...but it doesn't change the fact that this happened. What's happened in the past has happened. Are we all (black, white or whatever nationality or creed) to be held responsible for the past? I have not reffered to any race responsible. It is the individuals who are to blame for taking advantage of a situation and letting greed take over. It saddens me to see that so many here are still taking issue with race. I just hope that my small donation goes to help those less priveliged. Look to the future and not the past.....for that is where we can change things. I offered what I could to try to help the thousands who are sat on the streets who have lost everything. I am lucky enough (as you on this site all are) to have power to my PC and food and water.

Think about that....
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

ismhatthisworld says:

anunnakione...i happen to be an african american female. since when is asking for people to be more aware of their own communities a black or white thing?
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

alexandercuk says:

Thanks ismhatthisworld for expanding. It's about community..and helping each other. No matter what our roots are....at times like this we should try to pull together. I don't really know much about NO, but it's a place I always wanted to visit. I adore Cajun and Creole food and it has long been an ambition to visit NO. It's terrible to see what is going on and hard to imagine what life must be like there right now. In this extreme situation I can understand that looting took place. It was actually heartwarming to see one store owner whose store was destroyed selling off his stock cheap to people who needed essentials. Now that is more the spirit that is needed :)

The people who captioned those photographs should reconsider their words. I know if my belly was empty and I was forced to live under such conditions I would use any means possible to support myself..but stealing gems would be last on my list of priorities I reckon.

I hope in the aftermath of this awful disaster that it actually draws people together and that everybody can see that the real tragedy is a human one...nothing more sinister.

In fact the thing that morally sickened me was that people who were dry and clean and in a hotel were taken out on buses BEFORE some who were living in squallid conditions in the Superdome. That is plain wrong.
Posted 47 months ago. ( permalink )

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