Katrina's Fund Raising Frenzy: Too Much and Not Enough

This article emphasizes a point that is largely ignored by those who give money to disaster relief causes. Sure, giving money is beneficial to an extent. But when all is said and done, if we don't alleviate the more widespread poverty and racism in the US, the people who don't have the means to escape disaster will continue to exist en masse.

Give your energy, your compassion, and your support for demanding justice, not just the contents of your wallet or purse. You can do this by learning about poverty and racism in the US and all over the world for that matter. Take it slow...pick an issue that you don't know much about, and read an article or two from different sources each day. Be wary of sources that come from those with vested interests in retaining a poor labor force or those whose commentary is tainted, overtly or covertly, of stereotypes and prejudice.

If we choose not to expend the energy or make the commitment, our financial donations will stand more as a way for us to avoid responsibility than to actually help people in need. We need to do the right thing--continue to educate ourselves and challenge our public and private leaders when they lead people to disaster.