Change from Within: Three Stories from New Orleans

About Our Work in New Orleans
The Open Society Foundations have been engaged in strengthening civic engagement in New Orleans for more than a decade—work that became even more urgent and nationally relevant after Hurricane Katrina and the floods.

The Truth About My Father
Petrice Sams-Abiodun
June 17, 2011
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My father's struggle with addiction and habitual incarceration had a profound influence on my life. But in spite of his shortcomings, he was a good father and he epitomized the culture of New Orleans.

Exoneree John Thompson's Quiet Dignity
Emily Maw
April 12, 2011
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John Thompson spent 18 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Now the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled there is no accountability for the prosecutors who covered up evidence and nearly got him executed.

On Democracy in New Orleans—and America
Thomas Hilbink
January 28, 2011
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Whatever happens in Washington (or Tucson) does not constitute the sum total of our democracy. Democracy happens in unadorned meeting rooms on quiet corners in New Orleans East and beyond.