"A great American city is literally fighting for survival."
And Marc Morial, the former Mayor of New Orleans, is urging Penn students to help rebuild the city in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
The 1980 College alumna asked students how they "wanted to be counted," challenging their participation in community outreach.
"Can you be counted to have just done something? To have played a role in one of the difficult challenges during the time you lived?" Morial asked.
From the Great Depression to September 11, Morial discussed other historical events that have required a national response.
"Every generation is faced with a set of big challenges," Morial said. "One of the greatest challenges today is the need and necessity of generations to embrace the obstacles of their times."
Morial advised students to "lead by example," sharing ways in which they can help rebuild New Orleans.
"Hands-on service, I feel, is the most impactful way that one can participate and give," Morial said.
For those unable to travel to Louisiana, Morial offered other options, such as donating money and resources, adopting schools, places of worship or even families by giving clothes, books and diapers.
Additionally, Morial urged students to examine the recovery efforts taking place and to question whether it can be changed for the better.
"What is the way emergency preparedness and emergency response ought to be conducted in this country?" he asked.
Finally, Morial promoted the importance of reviving tourism, especially attendance at important cultural events like Mardi Gras and music festivals.
"What would Philadelphia be if the cheesesteak went away? Sure, there is more culture to [the city] than that, but what would a community be without some of the essences of its culture?" Morial asked.
The audience was responsive to Morial's propositions.
"He made me realize that one person can make a difference," said College freshman Jennifer Duval. "Sure, it's better to have more people, but you have to start somewhere."
Duval added that she intends to get some of her friends together and go to New Orleans for spring break.
"Maybe we'll find a school or family to adopt," she said.
Morial served two terms as mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002, leaving office with a 70-percent approval rating. In 2003, he was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Urban League.
The lecture was hosted by the Fox Leadership Forum.
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