A Louisiana judge has issued a temporary order halting the state’s initiative to dismantle homeless encampments in New Orleans, a decision that coincides with the upcoming Taylor Swift concerts this weekend.
The operation to displace approximately 75 individuals residing in tents under an overpass adjacent to the Superdome began shortly before the pop star’s performances, which are anticipated to attract around 150,000 attendees.
On Friday, Judge Lori Jupiter signed a temporary restraining order that instructs state law enforcement to refrain from “destroying or disposing of the property of unhoused individuals without judicial process” and mandates that those in the “state sanctioned camp” be informed that they are “free to leave.”
This order remains in effect until November 4.
The court’s decision responds to a lawsuit filed on behalf of homeless individuals targeted by the clearing operation. They claimed that state troopers infringed on their constitutional rights through unauthorized searches, seizures, and the destruction of their belongings, along with forcibly removing them from the area.
The lawsuit cites a legal observer who claimed to have heard state troopers mentioning that the “governor wants you to move because of the Taylor Swift concert.”
State representatives have stated that the goal was to relocate residents to a nearby site just two blocks away, which would also include those living in the tourist-centric French Quarter.
A spokesperson for Governor Jeff Landry explained that the initiative aims to tackle issues of homelessness and safety, linking it to both the concerts and the Super Bowl to be held in February in the city.
“In preparation for hosting Taylor Swift and Super Bowl LIX, we are focused on ensuring New Orleans presents its best image on the global stage,” communicated Kate Kelly, the governor’s communications director, in a local news statement.
Advocates for the homeless have criticized the operation, stating that it interrupted ongoing efforts by local officials to connect individuals without housing to essential services and facilitate pathways to more stable housing solutions.
Martha Kegel, executive director of Unity of Greater New Orleans, a nonprofit devoted to finding permanent housing for those without shelter, described the clearing operation as unnecessary and harmful, especially for individuals who might suffer from mental health issues and distrust authorities.
“Some people were frightened and left, which is not beneficial,” she pointed out. “As a result, the progress we made in assessing their needs and documenting their conditions to assist in their housing plans has now been undone.”
Among those displaced on Wednesday was Terrence Cobbins, who paused while gathering his belongings. He remarked that he had been instructed to leave due to the impending concerts, questioning why this action had not been taken previously for other events.
“They never did it before for anyone else,” he inquired. “Why Taylor Swift?”