Today we left Springfield bright and early, and arrived in New Orleans. New Orleans is unlike any city I have ever seen. It is unique and breathtaking. It also makes it easy to see how such a beautiful city became a victim to floods, during hurricanes especially. There is water everywhere after a day of rain. Background My name is Marissa, and I have a more personal reason … [Read more...] about First Day in New Orleans
In lieu of obviously giving away my political and economic beliefs, I've been critically analyzing the root cause of all of the problems we have faced so far in New Orleans, and I whole-heartedly believe that the cause lies in an intensified and corrupt capitalist economy. The very real American drive for money has exasperated the wage gap, limited city resources, and reduced … [Read more...] about Is capitalism at the root of our problems?
The day started with a powerful tour of the Whitney plantation, then moved onto exploring the lower ninth ward, onto the vibrant French Quarter, then to Louisiana's #1 ice cream shop (according to Reader's Digest (& according to Liz)), and finally walking around the affluent garden district. My experience at the Whitney plantation was intense. Slavery … [Read more...] about Slavery, Hurricanes, & Mardi Gras
We started the day by going to the Whitney Plantation, which is the only museum in the nation completely dedicated to slavery in the US. Our tour guide shared information as well as specific anecdotes from slaves in that time period. We can read and learne about it, but actually seeing where slavery took place really puts it into perspective. It was a sad thing to learn about … [Read more...] about DAY 1 NOLA
Hello from NOLA!!!!!! Today we met bright and early to begin our super fun 12 hour car ride. Most of us hadn't slept for more than three hours last night, but with the help of excitement, anticipation, and yummy donut holes, we were all ready to begin our adventure! Once we arrived and got settled at Camp Hope, we ventured out to find a local restaurant. We ended up at a … [Read more...] about Spotted: Bears in NOLA