Mardi gras indians

The impressive costumes are the result of months of painstaking sewing work.

Mardi Gras Indians. They are a symbol of the rich beautiful way a culture transcends oppression or at least uses it to fuel their communities vitality. New Orleans is a magical place. If you ever want to learn about this amazing community watch "feet don't fail me now" shot by Alan Lomax between 1978-1985

Photographed full-length, in front of these colorful New Orleans walls, they proudly display theirproudly display their voluminous antlers. Big chiefs, Spy boys, Flag boys and Queens, they are the Mardi Gras Indians. Their tradition has its roots in the history of slavery; "Mardi Gras" because it takes place during the city's carnival, and "Indians" because

When you think of Mardi Gras, New Orleans probably comes to mind. But there's a whole more to learn about the history of Cajun Mardi Gras.

Vintage Mardi Gras Indians Treme, New Orleans

Mardi Gras Indian or Black Masking Indian culture in New Orleans is filled with resilience, history and tradition - explore the beauty of their celebration this Mardi Gras season and in the weeks that follow.

Big Chief of the Yellow Pocahontas, New Orleans, Louisiana

Mardi Gras Indians on Super Sunday, March 20, 2011 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Super Sunday traditionally takes place on the Sunday after St. Joseph's Day, a traditional day for Mardi Gras Indians to mask. Photo by Kim Welsh.