As FEMA fends off allegations about its disaster relief funding, a 2023 webinar hosted by the agency has resurfaced depicting panelists discussing the need to reshape FEMA’s policies to emphasize “equity” over those that benefit the greatest number of people.
The agency held the webinar in March 2023, and one the following month, featuring panelists from faith-based organizations, private non-profits, local and state governments, and others who work in disaster preparedness and relief.
Emergency Management Specialist Tyler Atkins, who moderated the discussion, lamented that disasters compound the disadvantages experienced by the LGBTQ community.
“LGBTQIA people, and people who have been disadvantaged are already struggling. They already have their own things to deal with. So you add a disaster on top of that, it’s just compounding on itself,” Atkins said.
Maggie Jarry of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), noted that …