Gordon Plaza Residents' Present Day Political Activism
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For decades, residents of Gordon Plaza engaged (and continue to engage) in political activism to spread public awareness about toxic contamination in their neighborhood. Residents hope to achieve fair and just relocation from their tainted properties. Recently, the New Orleans People's Assembly partnered with Gordon Plaza residents to organize several events to increase public awareness of these injustices.
On September 8th, 2018, the Gordon Plaza neighborhood hosted “RISE for Cancer Alley,” a political rally tying together issues of environmental racism faced by the people of Gordon Plaza and residents living near petrochemical plants along the Mississipi River. Later that day, the rally made its way to St. James where toxic pollutants produced by petrochemical plants are destroying the health and wealth of black homeowners.
On October 26th, 2018, activists staged "Asphyxiated: Exposing Gordon Plaza" in front of St. Louis Cathedral. Some actors coughed and wheezed, while others wore signs with the names of past politicians who turned a blind eye to the injustices faced by residents of Gordon Plaza. Performed in the heart of the French Quarter, this protest demanded residents and visitors alike to recognize the plight of community members residing just three miles away.
In 2024-2025, the City of New Orleans completed a voluntary buyout of residential properties. But for some former residents the fight is still not over. A federal lawsuit, filed in May of 2026 alleges that the city is prioritizing other payments over millions owed in a class-action lawsuit for compensation for emotional distress and property damage.
As of 2025, the houses and buildings of Gordon Plaza no longer exist. They were torn down to make way for a a solar farm. In the videos below, longtime Gordon Plaza resident Shannon Rainey shares her decades of political activism.
To support the residents of Gordon Plaza:
Follow New Orleans People’s Assembly for more details on how to get involved on their website https://gordonplaza.com/
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Protestors carry a banner during RISE for Cancer Alley Rally in Gordon Plaza and St. James Parish.
Source: Image courtesy of Ella McIntire. | Date: September 2018.
Protesters Gather at Gordon Plaza in Concert with RISE for Cancer Alley Rally
Source: Image courtesy of Ella McIntire. | Date: 2018
Fenced adorned with Protestors Signs infront of Abandoned apartment building in Gordon Plaza,
Source: Image courtesy of Ella McIntire. | Date: 2018
Protestors advocate against environmental racism during RISE for Cancer Alley Rally.
Source: Image courtesy of Ella McIntire. | Date: September 2019.
Activists perform stage "Asphyxiated: Exposing Gordon Plaza" in front of St. Louis Cathedral.
Source: Image courtesy of Dr. Mary Niall Mitchell. | Date: October 26, 2018.