NOW on PBS Season 4 Episode 1 Race, Class, and Katrina
- September 4, 2005
Race, Class, and Katrina is the premiere episode of the fourth season of NOW on PBS. This episode explores the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans in 2005 and exposed deep racial and economic divisions in the city.
The episode features interviews with activists, community leaders, and residents of New Orleans who were affected by the storm. It examines how race and class played a role in the government's response to the disaster and the subsequent rebuilding efforts.
NOW on PBS also investigates the failure of government agencies to adequately prepare for the hurricane and respond to the crisis, particularly for low-income and Black residents who were disproportionately impacted by the disaster. The show exposes the systemic racism and systemic failures that have characterized the response to Katrina, from the inadequate levee system to the lack of emergency resources for those in need.
The episode also highlights the resilience and activism of New Orleans residents who have been fighting for justice and rebuilding their communities in the wake of the disaster. It examines grassroots efforts to rebuild housing, schools, and healthcare systems in the city, as residents work to create a more equitable future.
Overall, Race, Class, and Katrina is a gripping and hard-hitting exploration of one of the most devastating disasters in American history, and the ways in which it exposed and exacerbated systemic inequalities in our society. It presents a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the lives of those who were impacted by the storm and the ongoing struggle for justice and equity in New Orleans and beyond.