The Final Call

Disaster management training and the Black community

What's your opinion on this article?

Hurricane damage in Mississippi caused by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005. Graphic: MGN Online

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Millions More Movement Local Organizing Committees (MMM-LOC) are bringing in disaster management experts to conduct disaster management training throughout the country.

These courses are preparing and educating community-based organizations how to participate in the disaster planning process at the state, local and non-governmental level. In addition, Black organizations must develop and organize disaster-planning programs for projects, seniors, youth, inner-city schools and at-risk populations.

The intent is to empower community based organizations to understand their role and serve as a liaison, as well as resource to traditional disaster relief organizations and government. The MMM-LOC purpose is to provide oversight and direction of disaster resources when at-risk populations are being displaced or become victims of disasters—before, during and after the event. The training is open to all individuals, fields and organizations, mosques, churches and groups wishing to take advantage of these two-day workshops.

The expected outcome is for traditional community-based organizations to take the lead in organizing community preparedness collaborations between federal, state and local government. The main outcome will prepare organizations to offer effective disaster training programs for at-risk communities. Therefore, at-risk populations will not have to repeat the tragedy suffered during Hurricane Katrina and the community is directly involved.

Participants will be expected to follow up and implement a plan of action for community disaster management training programs. Community organizations will have a greater understanding and knowledge about disaster relief operations at the organizational and managerial level.