A Mardi Gras group is investigating what it says was a "racist display" during a Friday parade in New Orleans. The Krewe of Tucks says it learned only after the parade that a float had included a Black doll apparently dangling by its neck from a strand of beads, per USA Today. A young Black girl caught the doll attached to the string, according to the City of New Orleans, which later shared photos of the girl in a birthday crown enjoying some lighter festivities with Mayor Helena Moreno.
In an initial statement, the krewe apologized for the doll display, which it described as "intolerable" and "completely contrary" to its values, and pledged that whoever is responsible "will no longer be permitted to have any association with the parade." On Monday, the group said two members had been terminated after bringing 30 white dolls and 30 Black dolls to the parade "for the purpose of throwing them to young children," per WWL. The group said its investigation is continuing and additional action might follow.
Moreno had denounced the imagery as "deeply offensive" and "unacceptable," saying it runs counter to a city "built on respect, diversity, and inclusion." City Council President JP Morrell called the doll a "disturbing effigy" meant to intimidate families and children and said no one is "above accountability." City officials say they are working with krewe leadership to ensure consequences, as Carnival season heads toward its climax on Fat Tuesday.
,
uBlock 
,
and
Ghostery 
)
