We Want Media

As a cutting-edge politics junkie (and yes, I'm nothing but cutting-edge), I've seen my fair share of Gallup polls. From Dean screams to trial denials, the Gallup poll has been a wonderfully cynical way to tap into the fears of your favorite American-next-door. But their latest poll on the Big Easy had me scratching my head.

Just in time for Bourbon Street beads, booze and breasts, Gallup released a "Katrina check-up," polling New Orleans residents post-'cane. Putting aside for a moment the apparent results that black families were affected harder than white, what piqued my interest the most - and interest is hard to conjure up these days, let me tell you - was that each race had differing outlooks on the future of the city.

Segregated optimism? C'mon, New Orleans! Faith in your city's future shouldn't run along race lines - at least not anymore. You're all in the same boat here (pun painfully and regretfully unavoided). This is your culture and your home, New Orleanians, even if your house is no longer there. Here's your chance to fix the cracks in your convictions and let Mayor Nagin worry about demographics for reelection.

After a disaster like that, blacks and whites in the Big Easy should feel as much a family as bohos and brokers did in the Big Apple five years ago. So take advantage of your horrific situation, New Orleans - ignore the media pundits and crack open a crawfish together.