SUMMARY
Following devastating damage in southeastern states from Hurricane Helene, many have spread lies and spouted conspiracy theories about the federal government’s response. The disinformation is causing confusion among those most desperate for help and answers. Geoff Bennett discussed this with Juliette Kayyem, former assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is Juliette Kayyem, and what is her background?
- What are some of the harms of misinformation on emergency recovery, according to Kayyem?
- When and Where did Hurricane Helene cause widespread damage?
- How have political figures like former President Donald Trump claimed the federal government is failing on recovery?
- Why have hoaxes about government actions led to some people ignoring evacuation orders?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Juliette Kayyem says that emergencies like hurricanes can make it harder for those affected to access accurate information. She says that those in affected areas should seek a good "media diet." What do you think she means, and what do you think makes a good media diet during disasters and emergencies?
Media literacy: In this interview, Kayyem makes a distinction between misinformation and disinformation. What distinction does she make, and do you think it matters whether or not inaccurate information is spread on purpose or by accident?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
FOR MORE
What students can do: Read the article from the Associated Press, "Disinformation and conspiracy theories cloud Helene recovery efforts in hard-hit areas." Then discuss — how could citizens make sure they have access to accurate media during times of disaster? What sources might be best to use? What if accessing the internet or television is difficult because of power and communications outages?
Juliett Kayyem appeared in this Educator Voice interview with one of NewsHour Classroom's interns on how the US was dealing with the COVID emergency. Think about who you could interview to learn more about a subject you care about. You might be surprised at the number of people who will be glad to meet with you and your class over Zoom. Who would you interview about Hurricane Helene or its aftermath?
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