The aftermath of Hurricane Helene in September 2024 showcased the critical need for effective communication and trust-building between public agencies like FEMA and vulnerable communities. In Florida, residents were familiar with FEMA's efforts, but misinformation regarding land confiscation and aid diversion plagued North Carolina and Tennessee, leading to distrust and violence. To mitigate such crises, it's crucial for public institutions to engage communities well in advance, utilizing local sources for transparent communication and addressing historical injustices faced by marginalized groups.
The message for public agencies is clear: engage with communities long before a crisis occurs, so that they know what to do.
Misinformation gains traction when people feel their voices are not heard. This means that listening to local populations and addressing their concerns is key to establishing trust.
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