Chicago Tribune Takes Heat for Katrina Op-Ed

An opinion piece in the Chicago Tribune titled, "In Chicago, wishing for a Hurricane Katrina," has offended many who survived the devastating storm. The author's point was that New Orleans is better off today than before Hurricane Katrina. Kristen McQueary gives examples of an overthrown government, new housing, and improved schools: "Hurricane Katrina gave a great American city a rebirth."

Still, people didn't appreciate the humor: 

 

The newspaper has changed the article title to "Chicago, New Orleans, and rebirth" and removed some of the more offensive parts. But McQueary doesn't seem moved. 

Discussion Starters: 

• Read the original article. What's your reaction: does it offend you, do you see McQueary's point, or something else?
• McQueary's tweet seems to imply that, if would just read the piece, we would understand her perspective and why it's valid. How is her thinking flawed? 
• If she were to write an apology, what could she say to rebuild trust in herself as a journalist and for the Chicago Tribune?