The Undermining of Democracy

In post-Katrina New Orleans, decision making has rested in the hands of the executive branches of government, on both the state and national levels.  Policy for management of the disaster, the implementation of disaster relief programs and the rebuilding of the city have been decided upon without adequate engagement by those affected, particularly the poor and those displaced by the disaster.  Businesses have been courted to participate in this process and while the average resident is not only excluded from the decision making process but also physically locked out of City Hall in some instances.  A process that should for the benefit of people has been placed in an arena that bars their participation. 

These are the types of processes that are being encouraged by President Bush and the executive branch.  The SPP process was designed and is currently implemented in a manner to exclude any public oversight and awareness.  Even our congressional representatives, who are tasked with pushing forth our interests in their oversight and consent of government activities have been left in the dark.  The executive branch and their business counterparts change policy concerning security, health, safety, agriculture and the environment.  These government and business leaders conducted meetings in private; the process of negotiating is not publicized; and documentation of the agreements is unavailable to the public.  These policies will have a significant impact on citizens of all three countries, yet we are left with no means of engaging the private discussions and negotiations just as the citizens of New Orleans are denied a voice in determining their future.