New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today in remembrance of the seventh anniversary of Hurricane Katrina that devastated the city of New Orleans, Louisiana in 2005:

"Seven years ago our nation witnessed mother nature's perilous capabilities, which bought massive damages to the homes, communities, schools, businesses and the people of New Orleans. We grieved as one of America's oldest and culturally richest cities, the birthplace of Jazz, was nearly destroyed. 

From Hurricane Katrina, we learned to build better coordination between city, state, and federal governments to respond more expediently and efficiently to future emergencies. Presently, the federal government has offered support and various resources to communities that lay in Hurricane Isaac's path as it passes through the Gulf Coast. I am confident in President Barack Obama's leadership as Commander and Chief to ensure safety of the families and communities in the region.

The people of New York's 15th Congressional District join the nation today in paying tribute to those who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods during Hurricane Katrina and send our prayers to those who lay in harm's way now."