I had a fabulous vacation in New York City. However the day we arrived was the day that Katrina hit so whenever we were in the hotel, we'd be glued to the increasingly disturbing coverage of the aftermath.

It's hard to describe my reaction to the incredibly upsetting situation, so I'll quote one of my friend's comments:

"i'm feeling enraged and outraged and disgusted and frustrated and powerless and so very, very angry."

It was very bizarre to be in one of the wealthiest American cities (where people pay thousands in rent) and seeing another part of American that looks like a developing nation. As I watched the coverage numerous questions swirled around my head. In the Toronto Star, Vinay Menon articulates these questions:

"Where was the military? Why were rescuers taking so long to reach those in need of rescue? Who was in charge? Was there a plan?"

One of the quotes in the Star from a survivor in New Orleans continues to resonate:

"Is this America? Are we animals?"

David Brook in the New York Times notes:

"Take a close look at the people you see wandering, devastated, around New Orleans: they are predominantly black and poor. The political disturbances are still to come."

It's been encouraging to see black leaders critiquing the response and echoing the response of survivors (also quoted from the Toronto Star):

"I tell you, America has let us down."