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Zulu Organization Continues Rich Tradition with Annual Mardi Gras Parade

Photo By/DR. JEROME DORN

House Call

Zulu Organization Continues Rich Tradition with Annual Mardi Gras Parade

The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, one of the oldest and most cherished organizations in New Orleans, delighted crowds once again with its annual Mardi Gras parade, continuing a tradition that dates back over a century.

Founded in 1909, the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club has been an integral part of the city’s vibrant culture, known for its elaborate costumes, lively music, and exuberant floats. The organization plays a significant role in celebrating African-American heritage and contributions to the city’s rich tapestry.

Each year, the Zulu parade, led by King Zulu and his court, winds its way through the streets of New Orleans, drawing locals and tourists alike to witness the spectacle. The parade features intricately decorated floats, adorned with colorful beads and feathers, as well as marching bands and dance troupes.

One of the highlights of the Zulu parade is the tradition of throwing coconuts to the crowd. These decorated coconuts, known as “throws,” are highly coveted by parade-goers and are considered a prized souvenir of Mardi Gras festivities.

“The Zulu parade is not just a celebration of Mardi Gras; it’s a celebration of our culture, our community, and our heritage,” said a member of the Zulu organization. “We take great pride in keeping this tradition alive and sharing it with the world.”

As the Zulu parade once again captivates audiences with its vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage, it serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Celebrity photographer and disabled Vietnam veteran Jerome Dorn embodies the very definition of resilience. Born in Philadelphia, the fifth of seven children, Dorn stayed focused throughout his youth, eventually obtaining his degree in Criminal Justice. Dorn has worked with the Philadelphia Police Department, Department of Justice, World Wide Detective Agency, and several other high profile security groups. Throughout his successful career, Dorn wrestled with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, an aftereffect of his military service. Battling the pain and debilitating effect of PTSD, Dorn found comfort behind the camera. Photography proved to be not only therapeutic, but life changing as well. Dorn picked up his first camera in 1970 while serving in Vietnam and knew instantly that behind the lens was where he belonged. His shooting style and photographs were special, generating a buzz in the industry. In 1985, he began his career in photojournalism, working in a variety of genres. Dorn’s credentials include fashion, lifestyle photography, photojournalism, and celebrity/red carpet coverage. Working with MSNBC, Jet Magazine, and major publications in Philadelphia and around the country, Dorn has had the honor of capturing the images of hundreds of notable celebrities and politicians including President Barack Obama, George Bush Jr, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Maya Angelou, Jesse Jackson, Rihanna, Snoop Dog, Will Smith, and Tyler Perry. Photography has sent Dorn around the globe, inspiring his passion for civil activism. In 1995, Dorn assembled and led a group of forty-two men to the Million Man March. Together, they spent five days walking from Philadelphia to Washington DC. In his travels, Dorn observed a common theme amongst the youth of the world. Many of the children he encountered seemed lost. Understanding that opportunities for at-risk youth are minimal, Dorn was inspired to make a difference. Established by Dorn in 2011, InDaHouseMedia was built on the idea that there is room in the house for everyone. With InDaHouseMedia, Dorn’s mission is to provide the future generation with positive direction through sports, music, and photography.

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