A New Orleans home is being added to the National Register of Historic Places because of the efforts of a Tulane student. Tulane University graduate student Robin Smith spearheaded the effort to get the home on the National registry and worked closely with the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation and the current homeowner. “My primary concern in this entire process was that I do justice to the history of this place,” Smith said. “I knew that if I could just do that, that the nomination would be accepted.” The home belonged to the family of New Orleans civil rights activist Oretha Castle Haley, who challenged segregation facilities and lunch counters in New Orleans and promoted Black voter registration. Tulane says the home was also the headquarters of the New Orleans chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality and served as a meeting place and organizational center for planning sit-ins and boycotts against segregated businesses. It was also a safe house that helped feed and shelter the 1961 Freedom Rides participants who challenged segregated buses. Smith said national recognition raises awareness of this historic gem and preserves its place in history.
A New Orleans home is being added to the National Register of Historic Places because of the efforts of a Tulane student.
Tulane University graduate student Robin Smith spearheaded the effort to get the home on the National registry and worked closely with the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation and the current homeowner.
“My primary concern in this entire process was that I do justice to the history of this place,” Smith said. “I knew that if I could just do that, that the nomination would be accepted.”
The home belonged to the family of New Orleans civil rights activist Oretha Castle Haley, who challenged segregation facilities and lunch counters in New Orleans and promoted Black voter registration.
Tulane says the home was also the headquarters of the New Orleans chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality and served as a meeting place and organizational center for planning sit-ins and boycotts against segregated businesses.
It was also a safe house that helped feed and shelter the 1961 Freedom Rides participants who challenged segregated buses.
Smith said national recognition raises awareness of this historic gem and preserves its place in history.
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Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
