Last Friday, the U.S. State Department selected the city as one of only two nationwide to apply for membership in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) this year. With that endorsement, New Orleans officially submitted its application on March 3, backed by New Orleans & Company, the city’s tourism marketing and sales organization.

If successful, the designation would recognize New Orleans’ unparalleled musical heritage—home to jazz, blues, gospel, R&B, funk, brass band and bounce—and its deep cultural and economic impact. The UCCN designation aims to connect cities worldwide through arts and creativity, fostering international collaboration for sustainable growth.

“We are applying to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network because we want to fortify New Orleans’ seat at the global table, to open doors and shine a light on the rich cultural landscape that makes our city a hallowed destination for music lovers from across the world. In New Orleans, music doesn’t just tell our story — it is our story,” said Walt Leger III, president and CEO of New Orleans & Company in a press release.

“Not only is music the key to the soul for many of us who live here, the creative industries surrounding music employ thousands of local artists, craftspeople, and support personnel, contributing significantly to the New Orleans economy. Being selected to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network will help us further amplify the positive social and economic impacts of New Orleans’ music industry,” added Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

Founded in 2004, the UCCN recognizes cities that integrate culture and creativity into sustainable development strategies. It currently includes 350 member cities in more than 100 countries, with just nine from the U.S. If approved, New Orleans would join this elite global network, further enhancing its influence as a cultural powerhouse.