In case you haven't noticed, and you probably haven't unless you live in the area, Gatlinburg, Tennessee has been suffering from devastating wildfires. Thousands of people and wildlife have had their homes destroyed and many have been displaced. The fires were so bad that you could smell the smoke all the way in Southern Michigan which is approximately 600 miles from Gatlinburg. Locals aren't the only ones mourning the damage that has been caused to this beautiful place. Gatlinburg is a popular destination for many throughout Appalachia, including myself. I have been to Gatlinburg many times throughout the years and just recently took my three-month-old daughter for the first time. Being in those mountains provides a sense of freedom, possibility, and an unremarkable connection to our mother Earth.

So, why haven't you seen anything about the worst fire in Tennessee in 100 years from the mainstream media? Most coverage has been through local and regional outlets as well as social media. Many updates were coming from Facebook users broadcasting live through their respective accounts. The mainstream media has always had a bias against the people from this beautiful region of our country. We have always been portrayed as ignorant, gullible, hillbillies, racists, and old-fashioned among other things. Not to mention the disgusting memes, such as this one, going around on various social media outlets. As if a political preference is a reason to ignore what is going on in this region of the country. Our unique group of people have been used and lied to among both sides of the political spectrum for years and have been proved to time and time again that the elite just doesn't care about Appalachia. Both sides believe they can tell the people what they want to hear and then adhere to the agenda. The mainstream media is a part of the elitist regime, therefore don't care to report on what goes on in our region, good or bad.

However, I know this to be true; Appalachians are hard working, determined, ambitious, selfless and kind and will band together to help the families and wildlife that have lost their homes as well as help rebuild one of the most magnificent places on Earth. The Great Smoky Mountains display aspects of what truly makes our Earth beautiful. They are captivating, mysterious, and provide an escape to the ugliness of the world. We must do everything we can to help rebuild this community and preserve these mountains that are a home to many and an escape from reality to others. Respect the burn bans, don't litter, and leave no trace.

Here are some ways you can help the community of Gatlinburg:

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee

American Red Cross You can instantly donate $10 by texting “REDCROSS” to 90999.

Friends of the Smokies

United Way of Sevier County, Tennessee via PayPal