Political Quotes

“most of my Senate colleagues are aware of the rich culture and heritage that is on display in Louisiana during the days and weeks before Lent. Parties and parades mark the end of the Mardi Gras season and the beginning of fasting and sacrifice. But few outside of Louisiana are familiar with the unique tradition of the Mardi Gras Indians. I rise today to celebrate this unique Louisiana tradition and recognize the Mardi Gras Indians Hall of Fame Day to be celebrated at Oretha Castle Haley Elementary School in New Orleans, LA, on August 7, 2011. The history of the Mardi Gras Indians dates back to the late 1800s, but their origin remains a mystery. Because most of their history and practices have been passed from generation to generation orally, we may never know if the Mardi Gras Indians came about to pay homage to Native Americans for hiding runaway slaves or simply as a expression of the connection between Native Americans and African Americans. What we do know is that their tradition adds an incredible story to the history of New Orleans and Mardi Gras. Today, the Mardi Gras Indians consist of more than 40 individual tribes. These tribes compete against one another using chants and music along with their elaborately decorated costumes called ``suits.'' The suits are each hand sewn by the tribe members and typically take an entire year to complete.…”