Hurricane Katrina was barreling toward New Orleans, my husband’s hometown and the city I have called home since I was 13. While families rushed to evacuate, ours was preparing to bury my father-in-law, Clarence L. Barney Jr.
At the time, I was a Florida resident and had lived through many storms. Nothing, however, prepared me for the mix of grief and dread I experienced that weekend. The skies were bright as we walked into the Dillard University chapel. Family, friends and dignitaries offered condolences, quietly asking, “When are you leaving?”
Evacuation hadn’t crossed our minds. We were focused on honoring Barney, who led the Urban League of Greater New Orleans for 30 years, elevating the community he loved.
For hours, such leaders as state Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu spoke of Barney’s wisdom and strength. “We all know that a hurricane is coming,” Landrieu said. “In the person of Clarence Barney, a hurricane just left.”…