First, we need to point out that most of the homes in the affected flood area will likely be leveled to the ground, and tons of soil removed - and may happen before residents can reclaim any more personal belongings - as such are contaminated.
Second, I was down in NO in April with family and friends, and became upset over the living conditions of the local poor and Blacks. I elected NOT to donate my money to the wealthy Catholic church down in the French Quarter, and instead, held on to a handful of singles to give to locals who were performing novelty tricks, dance, etc. After giving a few dollars to a young Black kid, I was nearly mobbed by a few adults for the remaining cash in my hand. One gentleman seemed in so much desperation - as if he were a starving animal, and I then lectured a few in my group HOW NO could allow people to live in such desperate conditions. I was told the typical response, "They've got opportunities." I continued my lecturing on philanthropy and concern for human rights. I'm not sure if I got through. But now I believe what I observed and spoke of happened for a reason, and perhaps even a little prophecy.
For fun in California, and in the spirit of continuing my musical pursuits, I am active in "drum circles" and musical percussion. There is corroborative research to support rhythm and drum circles' role in mental health and wellness. I also had to "reinvent myself" 13 years ago after a brain injury and 5 surgeries, and music became a great resource and outlet leading to much of what I've accomplished today. Adversity strengthened my resolve and faith, and creating and responding to music certainly expanded my cognitive skills and well being.
Today, when I play the "djembe" (African drum) in front of large crowds - I often become the focus of interest to listeners, where Black and Latino listeners turn estatic. Their eyes light up, bringing smiles and dancing, and cell phone calls too. Some even ask to play. I remain surprised at how few know the djembe comes from Africa, and dates back more than 1500 years.
So I propose that those of us in music and drumming put on a large coordinated drum circle for displaced residents. Drum and percussion intruments and facilitators could be brought in from companies such as Remo (
www.remo.com) and others, and hurricane victims would have the chance to play and express themselves through rhythm. It could be coordinated simultaneously through satelite TV from various locations and broadcast on network TV. You haven't heard music until you've heard the orchestral play of coordinated percussion. It's one of the oldest forms of non-verbal communication. Arthur Hull, of Santa Cruz, CA, is one of the founding fathers of modern drum circles, and remains a well known facilitator today.
Displaced New Orleans' Residents Opportunities to Reinvent Themselves
. While they have fallen victim to a life altering catastrophe, our government will probably try to provide just the bare minimum that they think they will be able to get away with while trying to stay on friendly terms with the American people. Employers in the nearby areas are probably already preparing themselves for an onslaught of hopeful employees, and with such a diverse and plentiful group to choose from they will probably seek only the best (Highly trained, most knowledgable, most experienced, etc.). Employers will be just as ruthless as our own government, they are both in it to make money after all. They are also both going to try to come out of it in the best light possible...
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Re: Displaced New Orleans' Residents Opportunities to Reinvent Themselves
