“A Place Called Desire”
William Prince presents Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation Media Award to Leonard Smith IIIWe recognize outstanding works published or produced within the last two years (journalism, films, books, websites, or other media) on Louisiana historic preservation themes, topics, issues, projects, or local history and architecture.
Louisiana Heritage Media Award
Filmmaker Leonard Smith III’s documentary film, “A Place Called Desire,” highlights and shares the stories of the New Orleans Lower 9th Ward Desire community. He recreates the historical memory of a community and documents the legacy of pride by those who lived in this post-World War II development. Smith enables the viewer to look beyond unfair stereotypes and see the thriving, loving community of Desire’s public housing community.
The Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation recognizes 11 new award recipients for their impact on historical places, building pride, and fostering engagement in their communities. Awardees have been nominated by the public and selected based on
- Significance and magnitude of the nominee’s contributions and/or achievements.
- Consistent or innovative involvement with and commitment to culture.
- The benefit of the nominee’s contributions to Louisiana’s cultural understanding.
A formal awards ceremony will take place on Thursday September 30, 2021 in conjunction with the 41st annual Louisiana Preservation Conference to be held in Monroe and West Monroe, LA.
