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Behind The Lens

This category offers reflections, artist notes, and behind-the-scenes insights from our photographers and reporters’ perspectives—revealing the thought, emotion, and intention behind the images that define their work.

Behind The Lens episode 136: ‘That’s up to you all’

Cantrell tells opponents of her Municipal Auditorium plan to come up with something on their own — with no city assistance. ICE accused of releasing people into unsafe conditions. And a new mask 'advisory' for New Orleans.
by Carolyne Heldman July 23, 2021 Updated July 23, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 135: ‘A quarter for the Quarter’

A forensic audit reveals new details about Singleton Charter School's background check problems. A dispute over whether hotel rooms should be included in the French Quarter security tax. And more politicians oppose a mandated new jail facility.
by Carolyne Heldman July 16, 2021 Updated July 16, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 134: ‘A strike for better wages and working conditions’

The Orleans school district moves to close Singleton Charter School. City Councilmembers vow not to take Entergy campaign donations and city employees ask for $15/hour. And Medicaid recipients should watch for renewal information as eligibility will begin again when the federal COVID-19 'public health emergency' ends.
by Carolyne Heldman July 2, 2021 Updated July 4, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 133: ‘That’s actually stated in the statute’

No reports on the arrests of witnesses and crime victims, two years after passage of a law requiring them. Council hears about funding for new Entergy substation. And a privately run ICE facility is hit with a complaint for alleged human rights violations.
by Carolyne Heldman June 25, 2021 Updated June 25, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 132: The ‘up to no good’ explanation

ACLU sues security district officers over traffic stop, alleging discrimination. School district says Singleton Charter violated ethics laws. And a $74M plan to reliably connect the Sewerage and Water Board to the power grid.
by Carolyne Heldman June 18, 2021 Updated June 18, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 131: ‘What we have helps, but it won’t be enough’

Applications for New Orleans rental assistance program to be reopened, but there isn't enough funding. New names for school buildings move forward. And a report criticizes New Orleans judges for continuing to issue failure to appear warrants during the pandemic.
by Carolyne Heldman June 11, 2021 Updated June 11, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 130: ‘Justice should never be discretionary’

A bill to force new trials for prisoners convicted by split juries died in committee at the state capitol, vaccines are available at summer school and the status of a local affordable housing tax.
by Carolyne Heldman June 4, 2021 Updated June 4, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 129: ‘The NFL does ask for a lot’

NOPD creates a list of officers with potential credibility issues. An arrest warrant for a former charter school administrator. And the Super Bowl Host Committee is now a "culture bearer."
by Carolyne Heldman May 28, 2021 Updated May 28, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 128: ‘A comprehensive and brutal program’

The U.S. Supreme Court won't force the state to revisit old split-jury convictions. Shifting funds for school programs. And the city's meal assistance program is coming to an end.
by Carolyne Heldman May 21, 2021 Updated May 21, 2021

Behind The Lens episode 127: ‘There might be some politics behind the process or behind the scenes’

New charter school contract language shelved. Cantrell now backs full renewal of library tax. And an update on Angola prisoner Bobby Sneed.
by Carolyne Heldman May 14, 2021 Updated May 14, 2021

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For more than a decade, we have reported on issues as well as public policy meant to address the needs of residents. The Lens seeks to focus on the inherent inequality that has created a multi-tiered system. We, at The Lens seek to uncover, illuminate, inform and take part in a forward-looking community. Join us.

 
 

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