Hurricane Katrina
Coverage of Hurricane Katrina in the Nexus archive.
- I know how important Main Street grocery stores are to America, because I grew up in one
The author, from a family of grocers in New Orleans, emphasizes the role of independent grocery stores as community cornerstones, highlighting their loss after Hurricane Katrina and ongoing challenges. They support free markets and competition, noting Walmart and Sam's Club's recent price cuts at President Trump's request to celebrate America's 250th birthday.
- ACORN leader Beulah LaBostrie fought for fairness for all people
Beulah Kenny LaBostrie, a longtime president of ACORN, led voter registration drives, fair housing advocacy, and minimum wage campaigns in New Orleans. She opposed privatization efforts and mentored activists post-Hurricane Katrina before her death in 2018 at age 96.
- Black educators fighting for equal pay in1930s New Orleans spark birth of influential teachers’ union
Black educators in 1930s New Orleans organized for equal pay after salaries were restored only for white teachers during the Great Depression. Their efforts led to the creation of AFT Local 527, which achieved salary equalization in 1943 and aligned with the Civil Rights Movement. Later, the United Teachers of New Orleans union formed in 1972, but union protections declined after Hurricane Katrina.
- UNO’s future as a research institution in doubt as it rejoins LSU System
The University of New Orleans (UNO) may lose its R2 research status after rejoining the LSU System, as financial stability is prioritized over maintaining research activity. LSU System President Wade Rousse emphasized revenue growth and expense management, while UNO's transition back to LSU follows years of declining enrollment post-Hurricane Katrina. The Louisiana Legislature allocated $20 million to aid UNO's transition, but long-term research status remains uncertain.