As the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches, there is an ongoing discussion in the Louisiana media about ways in which New Orleanians, both at home and scattered across the country, could observe that devastating milestone. One response to the discussion is a Web project developed by a doctor named Justin Lundgren from suburban Metairie, La. Lundgren has designed a ritual complete with prayers, readings, musical suggestions, menus, and recipes with links to his blog for commentary. His idea is to encourage the “Lost Tribe of New Orleans” to gather simultaneously on Aug. 29 for the preparation and celebration of a ritual ceremony and meal demonstrating their love for New Orleans and continued connection to each other and their still-beleaguered city.
“The ritual contains elements of the Passover Seder, a moment of silent prayer, a little voodoo, some zydeco – different cultural aspects – a lot like New Orleans, I hope,” Lundgren explained last week. Indeed, his project is obviously well-researched and lovingly crafted. It’s a seasoned blend of religious, culinary, musical, and literary elements designed to satisfy the body and the soul, like any good gumbo. Lundgren is sharing information about his Web page with the national media, as well as media outlets in cities such as Houston, Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and Atlanta, where large numbers of Katrina evacuees relocated. All he asks is that we pass it along. “I’ve always told people that New Orleans is a state of mind,” Lundgren says. He’s created www.katrinadinner2006.com in hopes that his fellow citizens, wherever they are on Aug. 29, will join in an observance that offers the opportunity for “wholeness and reunion” with just that.
This article appears in August 11 • 2006.