On the 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Steeg Law shines the community spotlight on the Lower 9th Ward Homeowners Association (LH9WCA). The organization was founded after Hurricane Katrina to help residents in the historic community return and rebuild.
Founded by free people of color and working-class immigrants in the 1800s, the neighborhood has long been a place where families support each other and a community that passes along generational wealth through homeownership (it has the highest rates of African American homeownership in the nation). The L9WHA exists to preserve that legacy, expand access to homeownership, and support the resident-driven revitalization of the neighborhood.
Since 2018, Partner Charles L. Stern, Jr. has served as a Board Member of the resident-run, 501(c)3 organization, and currently serves as the Treasurer. Chuck first became involved with the organization several years ago when he was asked to handle a couple of pro bono legal matters for property owners in the Lower 9th Ward neighborhood because his private legal practice focuses on property and real estate disputes.
“The L9WHA is a grassroots organization formed by neighborhood members to rebuild a neighborhood that long has been an afterthought for the broader New Orleans community. In each of the last two years, it has organized a housing summit that brings together residents, prospective residents, and resource providers to continue the long process of rebuilding from the devastation of the last two decades. Beyond that, it continues to connect residents with the resources that they need to rebuild, maintain, and protect their property and improve conditions for all who live in the Lower Ninth Ward.”
As noted on the L9WHA website, the organization began with the passion and leadership of longtime resident Linda Jackson. A fierce advocate and community organizer, Linda helped protect the neighborhood when outside developers sought to buy up large amounts of land. She opened her own living room to neighbors, helping them navigate rebuilding challenges and advocate for their rights. Linda was instrumental in assisting residents with Road Home compliance after Hurricane Katrina.