Barbara Lee's Statement on the Anniversary of 9/11
(Washington, DC)– Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement regarding the fourth anniversary of the terrorists attacks of September 11th, 2001:"As we remember the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 and their families, our grief is refreshed by the anguish and loss of those impacted by hurricane Katrina.
"Four years ago, we were told that ‘everything has changed.’ Today, for too many people our reflection on this solemn anniversary is marred by a feeling of anger at our government’s utter lack of preparedness to deal with this kind of catastrophe, and the indifference to the victims of this tragedy suggested by our government’s shameful response.
"In much the same way that September 11th has changed our perception of ourselves in the world, hurricane Katrina should forever change the way that we look at ourselves here at home. This storm has torn down the curtain and exposed the bitter divide that poverty has wrought on our nation. Now that the poor are again visible, I hope that our nation has a similar moment of recognition, and that we can proceed with addressing issues of poverty and economic security in this nation with the same resolve that we fight terrorism and pursue international security in the world."
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