Louisiana Heritage Media Award – “A Place Called Desire” Leonard Smith III

• Recognizing 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.

Filmmaker Leonard Smith III’s documentary film 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 historic places, build pride and foster 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.
• Benefit of the nominee’s contributions to Louisiana’s cultural understanding.