HURRICANE KATRINA AND COVID-19: LASTING IMPACTS ON NEW ORLEANS’ AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN
2024

Impact of Hurricanes on African American Women in New Orleans

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Cherry Katie, Balaam Kori, Hardy-Smith Oliver, Bordes Piper, Simon Kennedy

Primary Institution: Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States

Hypothesis

How have Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic impacted African American women in New Orleans?

Conclusion

The study reveals that both Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic have led to significant stressors and coping mechanisms among African American women in New Orleans.

Supporting Evidence

  • Participants experienced significant family and community disruptions due to Hurricane Katrina.
  • Religious beliefs and practices helped some participants cope with the aftermath of the hurricanes.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic reminded participants of the challenges faced after Hurricane Katrina.

Takeaway

This study shows that big disasters like hurricanes and pandemics can really change people's lives, but some people find strength in their faith to help them cope.

Methodology

Participants completed a structured storm questionnaire and open-ended questions about their experiences during Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participant Demographics

Younger and older women who self-identified as African American / Black living in the greater New Orleans metropolitan region during Hurricane Katrina.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0887

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