A Louisiana judge has intervened to halt state efforts aimed at clearing homeless encampments in New Orleans, coinciding with three highly anticipated concerts by Taylor Swift this weekend. The move comes as officials attempted to relocate approximately 75 individuals living in tents under an overpass near the Superdome, an area expected to host around 150,000 visitors for the events.
Judge Lori Jupiter issued a temporary restraining order on Friday, preventing state law enforcement from "destroying or disposing of the property of unhoused people without judicial process." The order mandates that individuals residing in the “state-sanctioned camp” be informed that they are “free to leave.” This restraining order will remain in effect until November 4.
The legal action arose from a lawsuit filed by affected individuals, who contended that state troopers had violated their constitutional rights by searching, seizing, and destroying their belongings without due process. They also accused law enforcement of “forcibly herding” them away from their makeshift homes. A legal observer noted that some troopers mentioned, “the governor wants you to move because of the Taylor Swift concert,” during the sweep.
State officials defended the operation, asserting that the relocation was intended to address homelessness and enhance safety, particularly with the major events on the horizon, including February’s Super Bowl, which will also take place in the city. Kate Kelly, the communications director for Governor Jeff Landry, emphasized the state’s commitment to presenting New Orleans positively on the world stage.
However, advocates for the unhoused argue that the state’s actions disrupted ongoing efforts to connect individuals with social services and facilitate long-term housing solutions. Martha Kegel, executive director of Unity of Greater New Orleans, criticized the sweep as unnecessary and damaging, noting that many individuals in the encampment struggle with mental health issues and often distrust authorities.
Kegel stated, “Some people were frightened and left, and that’s not good. Because then all the work that we did to assess them and document their disabilities, and work with them on their housing plan has now been wasted.”
Among those affected by the relocation was Terrence Cobbins, who expressed frustration at being forced to move. He remarked, “They ain’t never did it before for other people. Why Taylor Swift?”
As the city prepares for the influx of concertgoers, the judge's ruling has spotlighted the ongoing challenges surrounding homelessness and the measures taken by state officials to address these complex issues.
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