Congress: Hold Bush Accountable on Failed Katrina Response
The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina has devastated New Orleans and nearby communities in one of the largest disasters in our history. The full extent of the tragedy will not be known for some time now, but it's safe to say that the long-term impacts will be staggering.
Regrettably, much of the damage may have been preventable. Critically important work on upgrading levees was shortchanged out of the federal budget. Wetlands that could have mitigated the storm surge were filled and developed. Disaster mitigation funding at the Federal Emergency Management Agency was cut sharply in recent years. President Bush was on extended vacation and plaintively noted that "I don't think anybody anticipated the breach of the levees" - even though this was blatantly false.
Congress must hold this administration accountable for its mistakes and failures to adequately plan for this catastrophe, as well as delays in mounting an effective response. The vulnerabilities of New Orleans -- such as levees in desperate need of reinforcement -- were known for decades, but necessary preventative steps were never taken. Why not?
At the same time, if we as a nation are to mount an effective response and assist those in dire need, we need to hear a call for shared sacrifice from both Congress and the Administration.
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Call to action
Ask your representative and senators to hold this Administration accountable for mistakes in planning for this disaster, and call for shared sacrifice from all Americans to mount an effective response.
http://www.workingforchange.com/activism/action.cfm?itemid=19560
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