Hurricane Helene Response Demonstrates Need For Robust, Equitable Systems Of Protection For Immigrant Communities

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 30, 2024 As extreme weather caused by climate change increases, more must be done to ensure diverse communities are safe and resilient. NASHVILLE— As floodwaters brought by Hurricane Helene recede in east Tennessee and family members work to identify missing loved ones, it’s increasingly clear that our communities and state are woefully underprepared to mount equitable responses to the increasing effects of climate change on severe weather. “Our staff has been on the ground supporting immigrant family members impacted by the disaster, and it’s a reminder that Tennesseans will always come together and step up to take care of their neighbors in times of need,” said Lisa Sherman Luna, executive director of the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition (TIRRC). “But our communities can’t bounce back from disasters like this alone. As climate change brings more frequent and more intense instances of severe weather, we need equitable investment from state and local government to make sure that all of us—no matter who we are, the color of our skin, or what’s in our wallet—have what we need to recover from disasters and take care of our families.” TIRRC staff members who deployed to the...