Young Seminole Hunter Gang

Born in New Orleans and rooted in the secret societies of Africa, the Black Mardi Gras Indian Nation is one of the most beautiful and elusive aspects of one of the most unique cultures in all of the United States of America. For over 200 years, different “tribes” of “Indians” parade throughout the streets of New Orleans on Mardi Gras Day and St. Joseph’s Night in lavish, hand-sewn, and brilliantly colored beaded suits adorned with sequins and bright ostrich feathers. When meeting other “tribes,” they engage in spirited mock battles involving chants, tambourines, cowbells, drums, and much bravado in an effort to determine who amongst them is the strongest, most rooted, and “prettiest” of all.

Led by multidisciplinary artist and performer Big Chief Demond Melancon, the Young Seminole Hunters are part of a new generation of Mardi Gras Indians tasked with keeping these traditions alive in a rapidly changing and modern world. They accomplish this with museum-quality beadwork and electrifying performances that both command your attention and invigorate your spirit while allowing a rare glimpse into a world rarely seen by outsiders.

If given the opportunity to see the Young Seminole Hunters…consider yourself fortunate indeed!