FEMA Administrator Declares Hurricane Ian Aid Going to All Communities, Not Based on Race
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA (FLV)- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell clarified that there will be no racial discrimination or preferential treatment in the distribution of Hurricane Ian aid.
The comments are in response to Vice President Kamala Harris’ claims that assistance should be based on equity. “We have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity,” Harris initially said.
”We’re going to support all communities. I committed that to the governor [DeSantis], I commit to you right here that all Floridians are going to be able to get the help that is available to them through our programs,” Criswell explained.
Criswell had been on the ground assessing damage from Ian in Florida throughout the weekend.
“There are a lot of people that are going to need assistance as a result of this.”
She also made clear that the federal government will remove any barriers that prohibit people’s ability to access aid.
“These people that need our help the most are going to be able to access the help that we offer,” Criswell said, “we are going to be there to support everybody that needs help.”
Christina Pushaw, Rapid Response Director for the DeSantis campaign, said the comments from Harris caused “undue panic and must be clarified.”
“FEMA Individual Assistance is already available to all Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian, regardless of race or background. If you need assistance visit http://disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362,” she said.
