New Orleans’ decision to relocate homeless residents ahead of Taylor Swift’s concerts has sparked outrage, with critics arguing that the city cares more about impressing visitors than helping its own people. The swift action taken to clear the streets for the pop star’s shows — set to draw over 150,000 attendees — highlights the city’s failure to address homelessness consistently.
“They ain’t never did it before for other people. Why Taylor Swift?” asked Terrence Cobbins, one of the homeless individuals forced to move. His sentiment reflects the frustration many feel as the city only takes action when it benefits its image, rather than for the well-being of its residents.
In response to a lawsuit filed by those affected, a judge issued a temporary restraining order to halt further relocations until Nov. 4. The legal complaint alleges that state troopers violated constitutional rights by forcefully displacing the homeless and destroying their belongings. Observers reported hearing troopers say that the governor ordered the sweep because of the Taylor Swift concert, raising questions about the city’s priorities.
State officials defended the effort, claiming it was tied to preparing for the Super Bowl in February as well as the concerts. Gov. Jeff Landry’s communications team insisted that they aim to present New Orleans positively “on the world stage.” However, critics see this as an excuse to push the homeless out of sight without offering real solutions.
Martha Kegel, director of Unity of Greater New Orleans, condemned the sweep as counterproductive. “Some people were frightened and left,” Kegel explained, highlighting that the city’s abrupt action set back efforts to provide assistance. Many of those affected struggle with mental health issues, and such aggressive tactics only deepen their distrust of authorities.
The swift action taken for a pop star’s concert stands in sharp contrast to the slow response the city offers its residents in need. As New Orleans prioritizes its image for high-profile events, the question remains: why can’t the city show the same dedication to cleaning up its streets for those who live there every day?
