In a city as diverse as New Orleans, Mardi Gras season is always something to look forward to, whether you’re from within the city or live out in the states. As we give thanks for the holiday season, it is only right that we highlight the Black voices and crews of Mardi Gras that make this season so special. Here, to understand the diverse influences of Carnival season, from recent years to centuries past, we explore the mostly African American people who embody Mardi Gras, from the coveted Coconut His Throw to the Compact His Mirror. Lists crews and organizations.
nefertiti crew: Founded in 2018, Crew of Nefertiti has established itself as an all-female crew focused on volunteerism and community service within New Orleans. With a parade route in East New Orleans, Nefertiti’s crew is surrounded by diverse voices and employs those who strive to empower women and their accomplishments. Living up to our motto, “We serve before we roll,” Nefertiti has established itself as New Orleans’ newest crew member, welcomed by all Mardi Gras attendees.
zulu crewFounded in 1909 and marching since 1901, the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, or Krewe of Zulu, is an all-male group that owns decorated coconuts, one of the most desirable things at Mardi Gras. It’s Crew. Inspired by the Zulu people, the crew wore face paint and grass skirts while marching, identifying themselves as Zulu. Known as New Orleans’ largest black crew, the Zulu is known for its presence each Mardi Gras season. You better hope you’re one of the lucky ones to take home the coveted coconut.
Mystic Crew of Femme Fatales: Founded in 2013, the Mystic Krewe of femme fatales is no stranger to having a good time during Mardi Gras, despite being relatively new to the scene. As an all-female crew, Femme Fatale strives to highlight and uplift diverse women and their voices during Parade Her season and beyond. Known for throwing point-and-shoot mirrors during parades, Femme Fatale is the first of its kind to be founded by and for black women, although women of all races, ethnicities, and nationalities are welcome to become members. It’s Crew.
mardi gras indians: The Mardi Gras Indians, made up primarily of black men from the inner boroughs of New Orleans, are not your average krewe, even if they are a krewe. The community is named after various neighboring boroughs of New Orleans and after the Native American Indians it helped escape from slavery during its heyday. As a way for inner-city neighborhoods to participate in Mardi Gras without fear of being judged or not having enough, Mardi Gras Indians evolved out of the “ghetto” and black neighborhoods to diversify their opinions. gave the opportunity to create their own form of holiday. season. Although the exact founding date cannot be determined, the history of the Mardi Gras Indians dates back more than a century to his 1880s. Each “tribe” of Mardi Gras Indians has its own unique style and traditional indigenous costumes, and we propose to respect the culture and diversity within our community and in New Orleans.