Hurricane Katrina was a devastating natural disaster that struck the Gulf Coast of the United States, particularly affecting the city of New Orleans, in August 2005. The hurricane caused catastrophic flooding and destruction, resulting in the displacement and loss of lives of many residents, with a disproportionate impact on Black communities.

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina exposed and amplified existing social and racial inequalities in the United States. Black residents, who made up a significant portion of the population in New Orleans, were disproportionately affected by the hurricane due to factors such as poverty, lack of access to transportation, healthcare, and resources, as well as racial discrimination.

The slow and inadequate response from local, state, and federal authorities in the immediate aftermath of the disaster further exacerbated the suffering of Black residents. The government's failure to provide timely assistance, evacuate vulnerable populations, and adequately address the needs of those affected by the hurricane highlighted systemic issues of institutional neglect, racism, and inequality.

Hurricane Katrina serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of historical and systemic racism on Black communities in the United States, and the importance of addressing these disparities in disaster preparedness and response efforts.