Ella Baker Center for Human Rights

Speaking Out Against Injustice in the Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina and neglect by the Federal Government conspired to create one of the worst humanitarian crises on United States soil in generations. In the aftermath of the disaster, RSF responded with funding to help the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights (EBC) organize “survivor speak-outs,” public awareness, and fundraising events. “With RSF’s funding, Ella Baker Center organized more speak-outs regionally and nationally,” says Van Jones, executive director. “The events raised thousands for evacuees and gave voice to those impacted by this tragedy.”

EBC organized an initial speak-out in the Bay Area, where thousands of evacuees had relocated. Over 200 turned out to hear the heartbreaking, horrifying and moving accounts of disaster and survival. The level of injustice, pain, and indignity that these families described cannot be conveyed in words. But even more powerful was the indomitable spirit they displayed.

“We were all awestruck by the strength and determination of one 80-year-old Black grandmother who had walked four miles in water up to her neck, and somehow survived,” says Jones.

Based in Oakland, California, EBC launches solutions-driven campaigns that challenge racial, economic, and social injustice in our cities. Known for their work fighting abuse in the criminal justice system, EBC has a new initiative to create green jobs in neighborhoods affected by poverty and over-incarceration.

Although disaster relief is not a program area, EBC believed it had to get involved to help “human beings the government abandoned.” In addition to “survivor speak-out” events, EBC has partnered with Rebuild Green to advocate for a just and sustainable redevelopment in New Orleans.

For more information, please visit their website at www.ellabakercenter.org.

PHOTO BY YING-SUN HO COURTESY ELLA BAKER CENTER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS.

Friday, March 31st, 2006