I grew up in New Orleans East, where the roads were endlessly filled with potholes. And the crackheads would dance for money off the corners of Morrison and Crowder. With the humidity taking a toll on everyone and the sea level constantly rising, it was the place to be.
When I was younger, I never thought the city was a dangerous place. I attended Lake Forest Charter School, where I wore a white and navy-blue plaid uniform every day. We would be in school learning about the city’s history.
We learned about the Louisiana Purchase, the origins of Mardi Gras, and everything in between…