Compassion in Houston flows like a river
Only one good thing has come out of hurricane weather and floods in Houston, Texas: No one is fussing, fuming and tearing down statues. We are back to the basics. Save lives, take care and help our fellow man any way that we can. The devastation is greater but compassion flows like a better river.
CATHERINE BOONE SHEALY, ATLANTA
Is Harvey just the beginning?
The devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey is being characterized as historic, unprecedented, as were the impacts of Katrina, and of Sandy. Who will be hit next? Savannah, Miami, Charleston? A recent scientific report published in the journal Science concludes that the most damaging impacts of climate change in the United States will be concentrated in our southern region. What are we doing to prevent or at least alter that outcome?
There is much we can do to ensure a safe and prosperous future, but we must start now. Unfortunately, the Trump administration’s policies will lead us in the opposite direction: accelerating carbon emissions, rolling back safety standards for flood protection, and refusing to participate in the international efforts needed to create a safe and stable world for us all, not just some of us.
There is widespread agreement that, given current trends, those with the most wealth and access to influence will suffer the least from the impacts of climate change. If we want our children and grandchildren’s world to be one of community, of flourishing and success, not strife and suffering, we have to speak out and act now. We must demand leadership and policies that are accountable to the realities of our world, or leave a legacy of suffering the likes of which the catastrophes we see unfolding in Texas and Louisiana are just a taste.
TOM THRASHER, ATLANTA
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