Call-to-Action from Amnesty International
More than two years into the human rights disaster of Hurricane Katrina, thousands remain displaced because of an absence of affordable housing, with rent increases up more than 40% and the majority of public housing still shuttered. Local and federal agencies reportedly plan to demolish four of the largest public housing developments in New Orleans, which would eliminate the majority of public housing in the city. This could affect thousands of former residents, many of whom are keen to return. Help uphold New Orleans residents’ right to return by ensuring that the Senate passes a bill that addresses housing needs in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Urge your senator to co-sponsor the Gulf Coast Housing Recovery Act of 2007 (S. 1668), or thank your Senator, if he or she is already a co-sponsor.
The House has already passed its version of this bill, H.R. 1227.