The Katrina List: An Untold Story of Hurricane Katrina
A Living Memorial
On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans — but the storm was only part of the disaster. Broken levees, government neglect, and systemic inequities turned tragedy into catastrophe.
In the days that followed, thousands waited for relief at the Convention Center. Local resident Omar Casimere began writing their names by hand. Nearly 7,000 entries later, The Katrina List stands as a testament to both grief and resilience.
About the Work
The Katrina List is a living memorial. It honors the lives touched by Hurricane Katrina while bearing witness to a collective story of survival, loss, and strength. The handwritten names remind us that history is not just numbers — it is people, families, and communities.
Why It Matters
Memory & Witness – Preserving the names of those who might otherwise be forgotten.
Resilience & Community – Neighbors helping neighbors when systems failed.
A National Warning – Nearly half of all Americans live behind levees today. Katrina is not only New Orleans’ story — it is a signal for the nation.