Letters from the Field
In Thailand, the December 2004 tsunami hit popular beaches at the height of the mid-winter tourist season. Many of the victims of the tsunami were Burmese immigrants. When services and relief supplies are being allocated, it becomes clear who society considers worthy, wanted, and legitimate—and who it does not. 
The Indonesian village of Peunaga Pasi is on the outskirts of Meulaboh, a city of nearly 50,000, in western Aceh province. It's set back from the main road and nestled among coconut trees that line the shore of the Indian Ocean... As you approach Peunaga Pasi, there's ample evidence of a recent, overwhelming disaster.
Almost precisely three months after the tsunami [of December 26], just when the reality of [that disaster] was sinking in, to have an 8.2 earthquake was more than people could stand. Everyone ran. Many people jumped from second floors, fell in the street, and were hit by cars. Families got split in the rush, adding to their fears and sadness.
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