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Tag: New Orleans

We learned from Katrina what government-created trauma looks like. Let’s not repeat it.

As we learned from Katrina, when government decisions destabilize families and communities, the psychological impact on children is profound and lasting.
by Stacy Overstreet December 4, 2025 Updated December 6, 2025

Last call at the First and Last Stop

Over the past 75 years, more than a dozen Black proprietors have run the First and Last Stop Bar, a longtime gathering spot for 7th Ward neighbors and Black-masking Indians. But earlier this month, a new owner posted an eviction notice on the door.
by Katy Reckdahl and Gus Bennett October 6, 2025 Updated December 29, 2025
This editorial-style illustration emphasizes the absence of environmental issues in the 2025 New Orleans elections. At the center, a clipboard lists the campaign focus areas—economic development, government services, public safety, and affordable housing—under the hashtag #livingwithwater. Surrounding the clipboard are silhouettes of political candidates framed by Democratic and Republican symbols. Below, the illustration highlights the city’s existential threats: flooding, saltwater intrusion, sinking levees, and overwhelmed floodwalls, reminding viewers that water and environment remain critical yet often overlooked priorities.

Casting votes for sustainability

In this city surrounded by water, we need to know each candidate’s position to address New Orleans’ environmental vulnerabilities, says the writer, an urban designer and educator who has long focused on water issues in the city.
by Aron Chang September 23, 2025 Updated December 17, 2025

‘Even in decay, life continues.’

Inspired by the floodwaters after Katrina and the birth of his son, photographer Gus Bennett created a new photography series, Organic Watermarks. Some images include 18 different layers of post-storm textures.
by Gus Bennett August 29, 2025 Updated September 8, 2025

Her hips uncover the truth about America’s music history

Dancer Chipo Kandake along with New Orleans drumming legend Herlin Riley present a show on Saturday that tells the story of what we call American music, which, she says, started with the Black community.
by Mizani Ball June 6, 2025 Updated April 3, 2026

New Orleans Health Department launches a misoprostol map

To assist physicians and patients, the NOHD announces the launch of a map of Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, which pinpoints pharmacies that are stocked with the controlled substance misoprostol.
by La'Shance Perry January 16, 2025 Updated April 3, 2026

Federal judge: ‘I don’t think robbers would ask for help’

by La'Shance Perry June 7, 2024 Updated June 10, 2024

A group of ‘violence interrupters’  worked the streets of New Orleans to prevent retaliatory shootings — until they were sidelined 2 years ago

by Nick Chrastil and Katy Reckdahl May 25, 2023 Updated July 25, 2025

School zone speed enforcement ends Friday

by Marta Jewson May 25, 2023 Updated May 25, 2023

Neighborhood security stopped 3 young Black males; A federal judge is weighing a lawsuit over it

by Nick Chrastil May 24, 2023 Updated May 25, 2023

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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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