OPINION
Roishetta Ozane
Louisiana is a state steeped in culture and history. I mean the food, music and festivals are to die for, but it’s also becoming a poster child for some of the most troubling statistics in the nation. The unfortunate reality is that pollution, poverty, and political shenanigans are creating a perfect storm that’s leaving many residents, especially those in low income, predominantly black communities, struggling to survive.
Let’s talk numbers: Louisiana’s crime rate is one of the highest in the country. And the President’s solution is to send National Guard troops in?! But let’s talk about why the crime rate is so high! It’s because with nearly 19% of the population living in poverty, folks are left with few options. People are quite literally just trying to survive. This financial strain is compounded by a failing education system that leaves schools underfunded, robbing students of the quality education they desperately need to succeed.
And then there’s the environment. Louisiana is no stranger to pollution. Industrial waste and environmental damage from fossil fuel and petrochemical facilities are wreaking havoc on our air and water, disproportionately affecting low-income neighborhoods. And now they wanna add more of these facilities mixed in with these new CCS pipelines?!.
Let’s be for real!! Environmental racism is real here, as communities of color suffer the most from pollution, all while lacking the political power to fight back. This state’s long history of prioritizing corporate profits over the health of its people has led to a toxic environment that many of us are forced to endure.
Adding to this mess is the reality of law enforcement in Louisiana. The headlines about crooked cops and police brutality are too frequent, causing deep distrust in communities. The recent high-profile exits of Black leaders from LSU are also raising critical questions about the systemic racism that not only plagues our educational institutions but also permeates our entire societal framework.
With politicians like Governor Jeff Landry pushing agendas that roll back diversity and equity, it’s clear we’re witnessing a retreat from progress. This isn’t just a racial issue; it’s about a broader indifference to the voices of those who have been marginalized for far too long.
As pollution clouds our skies, poverty limits our prospects, and politicians play their games, the people of Louisiana find ourselves at a crucial juncture. This toxic triangle (pollution, poverty, and politicians) demands immediate action. The future of Louisiana hangs in the balance, and we need to confront these intertwined issues head-on, advocating for fair policies and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
So, the real question is: will Louisiana step up to tackle these challenges, or will we continue down this path of neglect and injustice because enough is enough!!
