In this episode of Groundwork TV, Joe speaks with Jonathan Green and Gordon Jackson from Steps Coalition located in Gulfport, Mississippi, about the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Steps Coalition was formed in 2006 after the hurricane destroyed 60% of the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s housing stock. Over 40 community members and NGOs created the organization to give voice to BIPOC communities who were left out of recovery efforts. The coalition has fought an uphill battle after affordable housing funds were redirected to projects like the Port of Gulfport, but they’ve kept pushing leaders to address their communities’ needs.

The coalition organized “Katrina 20,” a multi-state effort across Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama that included sunrise services and cultural celebrations. These events brought together community leaders, faith leaders, and artists to remember Katrina’s impact and work toward recovery. With just three staff members, Steps Coalition partners with organizations like the NAACP and US Climate Action Network to expand their reach. Their work shows how local organizing and partnerships can create change, even with limited resources.

This episode highlights the ongoing recovery work on the Gulf Coast and demonstrates the year-round organizing that Groundwork Project supports in communities across the country.

Inspired by Steps Coalition’s work? Support them directly by donating here.

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