Black Indians from New Orleans, the compelling exhibition of the Musée du Quai Branly

Incredible costumes, songs, dances, music, parades… Who never dreamed of taking part of the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans? Dive into this festive and cultural universe by visiting the Musée du Quai Branly exhibition “Black Indians from New Orleans”. From October 4, 2022, to January 15, 2023, celebrate and discover the story and culture of the Amerindian communities given pride of place during exceptional celebrations.

Every year, an old tradition enlivens the city of New Orleans, a celebration less famous as the Mardi Gras Carnival, imported by European colonists. The Amerindian and African-American communities celebrate the Black Indians with spectacular parades and gorgeous shows.

For 150 years, these parades celebrate the memory of the oppressed peoples in the United States. These fast-paced celebrations pay tribute to ancient slaves and those who have been taken away from their lands, those who saw their people and culture disappear… These parades also enable to celebrate the resistance of the Black community that used to be kept away from Mardi Gras celebrations because of racial segregation. And this party is also a tribute to Amerindian communities who greeted fleeing slaves in the bayous.

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Behind bright colors, feathers and glitters, these danceable songs, music, drums, this merry atmosphere hide painful memories, a shared story of fighting for equality and freedom.

The Musée du Quai Branly unveils all the secrets of the Black Indians parades through a rich and very well documented exhibition. Discover stories, contemporary costumes and traditional pieces from the different peoples and tribes from Louisiana to the banks of Mississippi.

The exhibition tells us their stories and cultures meeting, intertwining and joining, for three centuries of resistance and fighting; fights that still go on today.

Go on a journey at the Musée du Quai Branly, learn more about these unparalleled celebrations and discover the story hiding behind these oh-so happy songs and costumes.