Louisiana uproar: Homeless camps relocated for Swift and Super Bowl
The authorities in the American state of Louisiana have decided to relocate several camps for homeless people. The reason for all the commotion is Taylor Swift's concerts and the Super Bowl game. Human rights activists and local authorities are incensed.
New Orleans is preparing for a series of Taylor Swift concerts and the anticipated influx of the star's fans. Local authorities estimate that the event will bring up to 150,000 people to the city. In connection with the event, the governor of Louisiana has decided to relocate homeless people who are camping in the area where the singer is to perform.
As reported by lailluminator.com, last Wednesday, Louisiana state police officers conducted an operation to clear a homeless camp on Calliope Street despite strong opposition from City Hall. Officers reported that the camp residents would be moved to "a centralized area that provides better access to services and ensures a safer environment."
State authorities argue that the move is primarily aimed at ensuring the safety of visitors to New Orleans. The governor of Louisiana's decision has sparked outrage among New Orleans authorities and human rights activists.
According to city officials, their actions directly conflict with the city's current efforts to provide stable, long-term housing for homeless community members before "eliminating" camps.
Human rights activists are incensed
While human rights activists criticise the authorities' decision, calling it a waste of taxpayers' money, they express gratitude that the camp is being relocated and not completely dismantled.
A camp resident also spoke out. Terrence Cobbins, in an interview with AP, emphasised that the decision to relocate was very surprising to him. As he stated, no such drastic measures have been taken before concerts until now. - They ain't never did it before for other people. Why Taylor Swift? - Cobbins said.
