Look for Oxfam’s New Report about the Gulf Coast Recovery on Aug. 23

Posted: 22 August 2006

Unequal access to opportunity. Institutional neglect. False assurances. These are the hallmarks of one of the largest reconstruction efforts in recent US history: the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast following hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

In a new report to be released on Aug. 23, Oxfam America explores how this multi-billion dollar initiative has failed so far to address the needs of the region’s poorest residents—despite grand promises to the contrary.

Called “Forgotten Communities, Unmet Promises: an Unfolding Tragedy on the Gulf Coast,” the report tells the story of three diverse places — two in rural Louisiana and one in urban Mississippi — and their struggle to restore all that the storms destroyed. It takes a probing look at how poor policy decisions, initiated at the highest levels of government and carried out through its lowest ranks, are pushing low-income families to the sidelines. The critical shortage of affordable rental housing now sweeping the region is just one consequence of the unfair practices the report examines.

“Forgotten Communities, Unmet Promises” also features the profiles of six individuals and the hardships they have endured. Portraits shot by Time magazine photographer Steve Liss illustrate these stories and capture the emotions of other Gulf Coast residents in a struggle that has now lasted almost a year.

Visit the Oxfam America Web site tomorrow for a printable PDF version of the report, and its stunning series of photographs. You’ll find them at www.oxfamamerica.org.