What follows are paraphrases, at best, but I've seen either Nagin or Blanco quoted mentioning thousands of bodies, a totally devastated city in ruins, complete chaos, the worst natural disaster in the nation's history. To which I'd say, in turn: I sincerely hope not, but only time will tell; not really, no; I suppose so, and here there's plenty of blame for the President; and finally, not even close.
Why are they doing this? The answer, perhaps, has to do with a hierarchy of victimization that has emerged around the world (now I really sound like a Republican, but please hear me out). This hierarchy exists because, it appears, of the truism that those who are perceived to have suffered the most are likely to receive the most help. So Biloxi's mayor calls this nightmare 'our tsunami,' hoping that relief will flow his city's way as it did to Southeast Asia.
The money, most likely, will travel downstream to New Orleans. But there will be a price to pay for the language that either was or wasn't necessary to spur the generosity that we're already seeing. Language matters, leadership matters, and morale matters. I'm not asking for rose-colored glasses here, nor even for a stiff upper lip. Still, if the mayor and governor could only find a way to speak candidly about their sorrow, about the conditions in their city and state, while at the same time offering some measure of optimism, we would all be better off. If history is any guide, Nagin and Blanco would probably also be more realistic in the process.
Kelman says New Orleans will be rebuilt, but the excessive negativity will only hinder that effort. He is right.
As an aside, note the ad from PETA on the side of the page. It links to a letter to the president from Golden Girl Rue McClanahan. You cannot make this stuff up.
(Hat tip to Cliopatria.)
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