It came to our attention, as an excellent example of how those outside the Gulf can not only show a symbolic solidarity with their southern neighbors, but can take the opportunity for good, substantive exploration of the topic for educational and self-reflexive purposes. In this case, the formal programming seems, a little surprisingly, to exceed even that planned at some New Orleans schools for this week. Just a sample:
"Talk at 11:15 a.m. Tuesday, Aug 28, “The State of the Heart: Rebuilding
New Orleans.” Held in the student Rathskeller (Ratt), located in Swint Hall,
students and staff will begin the week by speaking out and describing their
experiences in the Gulf Coast as they address the question: “Why are we still
rebuilding two years later and why are people still displaced?” Presenters
include: Josh Elek, Chris McPherson, Amanda Smider and M.J. Supan, students and staff who traveled to New Orleans recently on relief trips.
"Later Tuesday there will be a 6 p.m. program called “Sweet Tea and Spike
Lee.” This informal showing of the first two acts of the Spike Lee documentary, When the Levees Broke, will also be held at the Ratt and everyone is
invited. The film was released in Dec. 2006 and looks at the U.S. government’s
response Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans."
Our hats are off to Wheeling Jesuit for their effort, compassion and interest, which we hope to see replicated elsewhere. See the full report.
