How Many Times Will This Be Repeated?

Pierce, Cotton Say Black Leaders Not Included In Evacuee Relief Planning

The Chattanoogan

posted September 6, 2005

City Councilman Leamon Pierce said it appears that black leaders have not been included in planning for taking care of Gulf Coast evacuees in Chattanooga.

He said most of those being helped are black, "so it sends out a bad signal."

Councilman Pierce said the alleged lack of inclusion here comes after he said there is an impression that aid did not get to New Orleans quickly because its citizens are mostly black.

County Commissioner William Cotton said, "No black elected officials were involved in the first or the second meetings. I was called by Claude Ramsey after the meetings."

Commissioner Cotton said, "We should be at the table to make suggestions or comments."

He said he was going to bring the issue up with Gov. Phil Bredesen.

Rev. Kevin Muhammad said 80 black ministers have gotten together to set up a relief effort.

But he said they need to be "plugged in" to the overall effort.

He said, "There is a problem dealing with the Red Cross and the United Way." He said direct involvement was needed with those here leading the effort to help refugees.

Rev. Muhammad said, "Each church is prepared to adopt families. We could be of a great deal of assistance if we are included."

He said, "It could really help in bringing the community together."

Todd Womack of the mayor's office said he will work with Rev. Muhammad and the black ministers.