NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans celebrated Black History Month with a series titled, “Black History in New Orleans: Did You Know?,” highlighting local people and places that have made significant contributions to our city and its history. The goal of this educational series was to shed light on the rich, sometimes overlooked history of key Black individuals, places and events in New Orleans, in order to both celebrate our collective past and inspire for the future.
This series has been running on the City’s official social media pages, encouraging other online users to share other important people or events that have either impacted them or this city. Some of the highlights include:
- Tremé: The oldest Black neighborhood in America, Tremé boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1783. From its role as a hub for Black culture during slavery to its present-day vibrancy, Tremé offers countless opportunities to explore and appreciate its heritage.
- Congo Square: Situated within the Tremé neighborhood, Congo Square holds a significant place in history as the only location where Black people could congregate during the early 19th century. Today, it remains a symbol of resilience and cultural expression, hosting various events and celebrations.
- Leah Chase: A pioneering figure in the culinary world, Leah Chase transformed a humble po’ boy sandwich shop into the iconic Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. Beyond its delicious cuisine, the restaurant served as a meeting place for Civil Rights leaders, leaving an indelible mark on both the culinary and social landscapes of New Orleans.
- Saint Augustine Church: As the oldest Black parish in America, Saint Augustine Church has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and social life of the community since its founding in 1841. Its significance extends to pivotal moments in Civil Rights history, making it a cornerstone of New Orleans’ cultural heritage.
- Mahalia Jackson: Widely considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century, Mahalia Jackson was integral to the development and spread of gospel blues in Black churches throughout the U.S. Despite the pervasive racial segregation of her time, Jackson achieved considerable success in her recording career, selling an estimated 22 million records and performing in front of integrated and secular audiences in concert halls around the world.
- Jonathan Michael Batiste: Also known simply as Jon Batiste, he is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, composer and television personality hailing from the renowned Batiste musical family. He has recorded and performed with artists like Stevie Wonder, Prince, Willie Nelson, Lenny Kravitz, Ed Sheeran, Lana Del Rey, Roy Hargrove, Juvenile and Mavis Staples. Batiste, with his band Stay Human, appeared nightly as bandleader and musical director on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert from 2015 to 2022. He also serves as the music director of The Atlantic and the Creative Director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem.
- Kerry “Fatman” Hunter: In remembrance, the City of New Orleans celebrated the life of Kerry “Fatman” Hunter, a renowned musician and member of the Grammy Award-winning New Orleans Nightcrawlers Brass Band. Mr. Hunter’s many contributions to the community and our city’s culture, which will continue to resonate globally, gives his legacy a distinguished place of honor in our Black History Month recognitions.
The influence of Black culture and traditions on the City of New Orleans cannot be overstated, and the above list is only a small slice of these lasting legacies. To catch up with the series, please follow the City of New Orleans on Instagram, Facebook or X (Twitter).
Heading into March, the City is gearing up to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8. Mayor Cantrell is the first woman to be elected Mayor in New Orleans 300-year history, and she recognizes the invaluable contribution women have made throughout our city and community. This month, the city will highlight women leaders, as well as local women-owned businesses on the official City social media channels.
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