Paul Wilczynski's Observations

UUA Office for Advocacy: Gulf Coast

Action Alert from the Unitarian Universalist Association Washington Office for Advocacy

Friends,

My heart is heavy as I struggle to comprehend the loss and suffering all along the Gulf Coast. Amidst the despair, I find hope in the potential for this disaster to bring us together, as diverse people seeking common solutions to the problems so many now face. The question for most of us is "How do we help?" Let me give you some of my own thoughts, which at this point are both personal and professional.

First, we must provide emotional, spiritual, and physical support to the people who are directly affected. This may be in person, through phone calls or emails, or through worship services at congregations. It may be hosting people in your own home. The need for pastoral care is great.

Second, we must provide financial support. As the Rev. Bill Sinkford said today, in establishing the UUA Gulf Coast Relief Fund, "My prayers go out to those grieving for lost loved ones, and my hopes are with the thousands who face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and communities. I am especially mindful that those unable to evacuate from the affected areas, the poor and the elderly, have suffered disproportionately from the ferocity of this hurricane." Your donations will, through the UUA's Southwest and Mid-South Districts, be distributed to those in critical need. My wife and I have donated $100, and I encourage you to give as generously as you can. See http://www.uua.org/president/050830_katrina.html for Rev. Sinkford's statement and the donation site.

Third, we must recognize that systemic injustices are still operating. As a Rabbi said during his prayer at a meeting I attended this morning, much of the media coverage of looting shows only black faces, and leaves out that those people are still in the city because they're poor. While some of the looting is definitely opportunist and criminal, many people were carrying only the basic things they needed to survive: food, water, diapers. So we can help by speaking out against media coverage that perpetuates racism, through both direct communications to local and national media outlets, and by lovingly challenging family, friends, or co-workers who condemn looters without seeing the full picture. We can advocate for assurances from public officials that those most in need are first in line for aid, rather than last or left out entirely, and hold those officials accountable to their promises.

I hope these suggestions are helpful. May our thoughts and actions bring comfort to those who need it.

In Faith,

Rob Keithan

posted by Paul Wilczynski @ 12:22 PM