The Bonds That Link

We share a laugh. We share a tear. These are bonds that link us.

Yet, we have our individual worries, our unique opinions, our hopes and dreams created within the borders of our experiences.

To locate our Common Bonds and expand our understanding of them is a challenge facing our nation and, indeed, the world at this time. This blog, Common Bonds, will explore the paths that such understanding might take.

The Common Bonds that have united Americans run the gamut from belief in a shared system of government to acceptance and confidence in historical events that define the nation.

What if these bonds are broken? What happens when people begin to doubt the system of government or lose faith in historical accuracy?

This blog, Common Bonds, will delve into the pitfalls that accompany the loss of faith in a shared system.

Co-authored by Judy B. Taylor & Sharon Almirall

Caring for the World

California 2022 wildfires have consumed more than 300,000 acres. People cough, scan news reports to determine if their homes are in danger, move temporarily to the homes of relatives and friends to stay safe. Research indicates as the climate changes, less moisture and a bump in warmer and drier conditions contribute to an increase in the potential for wildfires, particularly in the autumn months.

In California, four of the top five fires occurred since 2020. Though wildfires are a common event in California, the wildfire season is longer now, a factor considered to be the result of climate change.

People in areas affected by fire throughout the west checked air quality daily in their communities before starting an outdoor jog or bike ride. “With the lung problems I’ve had in my adult years, I can’t spend time outside when the air quality is so poor,” a California resident said.

Air quality is only one of the serious issues people experience in wildfire areas. With homes destroyed, many people are searching for new areas in which they can live permanently.

On the other side of the continent, residents of delta cities are feeling the effects of rising seas. For many people in Florida, New Orleans, New York and other cities, the increase in hurricanes and vicious storms are prompting a look at their futures and how they can adapt.

In Florida, residents are coping with closed schools, power outages, tainted water, destroyed home and loss of the lives of friends and family.

Climate migrants consider where they might move. The question they, in addition to scientists, ask is “where can we go.” The answer is complex as many states will find climate migrants relocating.

FEMA is working with federal, state and local partners to offer help to survivors and communities as they cleanup and recover from Ian. The website https://www.usa.gov/hurricane-ian provides information on financial assistance after a disaster, disaster loans, how to file flood insurance claims, as well as information on health and safety, disability services and mental health.

“