On the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Catholic leaders are urging renewed efforts toward racial equality and justice. Bishop Roy E. Campbell, Jr., chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on African American Affairs, and Bishop Joseph N. Perry, chairman of the USCCB’s Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism, released a statement reflecting on the impact of the hurricane and its aftermath.

“As we mark the 20th anniversary of this tragedy, we remember those who were lost and displaced but also renew our commitment to racial equity and justice in every sector of public life,” said Bishop Campbell and Bishop Perry.

The bishops discussed how Hurricane Katrina exposed longstanding inequalities. “Over 1,800 people lost their lives and many more suffered traumatic experiences during the aftermath. Today, the impacts of ongoing mental and physical injuries remain and today the cost of the injuries is borne unequally,” they said.

They highlighted how faith communities responded after government efforts fell short. “The powerful witness of the Catholic Church filled the gaps of an inadequate governmental response to the tragedy. It was people of faith, moved by their hearts, who assisted in resettlement efforts in new cities, and supported rebuilding when people attempted to return home.”