A Plea for Modernism

Phillis Wheatley Elementary School stood as a defining landmark in New Orleans' Tremé, serving as a cornerstone educational institution for African-American students for nearly five decades. Its distinctive, modern design was ahead of its time and regionally unique, reflecting the area’s cultural and historical roots. The building sustained substantial damage during Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath in 2005. Despite the devastation, its singular architectural character attracted DOCOMOMO Louisiana, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving modern architecture. The organization advocated for its restoration through adaptive reuse, highlighting both its historical significance and architectural merit. To amplify awareness of its cultural and historical value and to champion restoration efforts, DOCOMOMO Louisiana produced a short film, 'A Plea for Modernism,' narrated by actor Wendell Pierce.