Ep 3. The Unheard Story of Hurricane Katrina 9 Years Later: Blackwater, White Militias and Community Empowerment

In the third episode of the third season of the show Breaking the Set, host Abby Martin delves into the untold story of Hurricane Katrina nine years later. The episode is titled "The Unheard Story of Hurricane Katrina 9 Years Later: Blackwater, White Militias and Community Empowerment."

The episode begins with a harrowing account of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which left vast swathes of New Orleans underwater and caused widespread destruction and displacement. Martin then turns her attention to the government's response to the crisis, which was widely criticized for its lack of preparedness and sluggishness in providing aid to those in need.

The episode goes on to examine the role that private military contractor Blackwater played in the aftermath of the hurricane. Despite their lack of training in disaster relief, Blackwater was deployed to New Orleans and granted the authority to use lethal force against looters. Martin explores the impact that this had on the predominantly black residents of the city, many of whom were already traumatized by the storm.

The episode also sheds light on the presence of white militias in the city in the days following the hurricane. Martin interviews members of the New Orleans chapter of the Black Panther Party, who describe the fear and intimidation that they experienced at the hands of armed white men patrolling the streets.

Despite these challenges, the episode also highlights the incredible resilience and community spirit that emerged in the wake of the disaster. Martin speaks to a number of local activists and organizers who worked tirelessly to provide food, water, and shelter to those in need, and to rebuild their communities in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Overall, "The Unheard Story of Hurricane Katrina 9 Years Later: Blackwater, White Militias and Community Empowerment" is a powerful exposé of the complex issues surrounding one of the worst natural disasters in recent history, and a testament to the strength and determination of the human spirit in times of crisis.