A judge in Louisiana has temporarily blocked state officials from clearing homeless encampments in New Orleans ahead of three Taylor Swift concerts in the city. The effort to relocate about 75 people living in tents near the Superdome was stalled by Judge Lori Jupiter, who granted a temporary restraining order on Friday. The order directs state law enforcement officials to not destroy or dispose of the property of unhoused people without judicial process and to notify residents in the sanctioned camp that they are free to leave. The ruling is in effect until November 4 and came in response to a lawsuit filed by homeless individuals who were subject to the sweep, alleging violations of their constitutional rights.
The lawsuit claims that state troopers illegally searched, seized, and destroyed property belonging to the homeless residents. It was also reported that state troopers were overheard saying the governor wanted the residents to move because of the Taylor Swift concerts. State officials have stated that the residents were being relocated to a new location only two blocks away, with plans to move other unhoused individuals in the French Quarter neighborhood as well. Governor Jeff Landry’s office defended the effort as a way to address homelessness and safety issues, linking it to the upcoming concerts and the Super Bowl in February.
Advocates for the homeless population argue that the effort to clear the encampments disrupted the work of local officials who were trying to connect the homeless individuals with social services and find more permanent housing solutions for them. Martha Kegel, executive director of Unity of Greater New Orleans, criticized the sweep as a needless and harmful endeavor, especially for those with mental illnesses who are distrustful of authorities. Many of those in the camp had their housing plans disrupted due to the sudden move, causing setbacks in their efforts to find stability and support.
During the relocation process, some residents expressed confusion and frustration about being told to move because of the upcoming concerts. One resident, Terrence Cobbins, questioned why this had not been done for other events in the past, asking, “Why Taylor Swift?” Despite the efforts by state officials to address homelessness and safety concerns, the temporary restraining order has halted further actions to clear the encampments until November 4. The situation highlights the complexities of addressing homelessness in a city like New Orleans, especially in the lead-up to major events that draw large crowds and attention. The lawsuit and judge’s ruling serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of unhoused individuals in such situations.
