Mardi Gras ball season is in full swing. Today we have the honor of showcasing the Krewe of African Queens from Pensacola, Florida. This Krewe is a part of the rich heritage of African American Mardi Gras culture and we are honored to highlight the Krew and their 2020 Queen below. Be sure to share images of your Mardi Gras fun using the hashtag #blacksouthernbelle
Black Mardi Gras Heritage: Pensacola Krewe of African Queens
From Teniade Broughton of Pensacola, FL:
Congratulations to Queen Moremi Ajasoro and the Krewe of African Queens! #BlackHistoryMonth fact: This krewe’s Royal is named in honor of the legendary queen, Mọ́remí Àjàsorò, wife of Oranmiyan, who was king of Ilé Ifẹ and son of Oduduwa, progenitor of the Yoruba people. Likewise, the Krewe of African Queens includes descendants of Florida’s oldest families with roots dating back to Pensacola’s early Spanish Period.
History:
The Krewe was established by a diverse group of women and elected Evaline Jones as captain. Their first Mardi Gras Ball was held in January of 2003, and our Annual Ball is considered one of the top social events of the year in Pensacola. Attendance is by invitation only, and keeping in tradition of the original Mardi Gras Ball, our ball is strictly formal. Unlike other Mardi Gras Balls, our guests do not have to pay a fee to attend.
About Krewe:
The Krewe of African Queens (KAQ) is a Mardi Gras krewe in Pensacola, Florida that was established in 2002. Members are a diverse group of ladies of different ages, backgrounds, and races but Krewe members enjoy a strong bond between themselves, as well as their families. Membership in the KAQ is exclusive and is by invitation only. Our By-Laws state that our specific purpose is to participate in Mardi Gras and have fun!
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