Carrying Legacy
Portrait of Big Queen Lo and Lil Queen Ivory of the Giimoozaabi Black Hunters and
Gang Flag Warren and Lil Queen Laila of the Young Generation Warriors
Created by Sarah Dearie, August, 2026
Acrylic on Stucco
Commissioned by Anne Burr Dance Studio
The Black Masking Indian tradition of New Orleans is a practice of cultural resistance through artistic excellence. As a pillar of the cultural landscape of the city, this living tradition weaves together intricate beadwork, song, dance and ritual movements. Masking Indians adorn themselves in hand beaded and plumed suits that require hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars to create. These suits are first revealed on Mardi Gras morning and then again on St. Joseph’s night and multiple Super Sunday Festivals and Events. Through masking, tribes pay tribute to Native Americans for sheltering their ancestors during slavery. These cultural warriors enrich and breathe life into our city through their remarkable artistry, soulful movement and dance, manifesting the divine in our everyday life.
“What does masking mean to you?”
Big Queen Lo:
“Masking gives me a deep sense of fulfillment because it connects me to my ancestors and honors their longing to be accepted as free people. I think about the sacrifices they made and the doors they opened for me, allowing me to experience opportunities they were denied in their time. Because of them, I can proudly walk freely through the streets and enter places they were once forbidden from entering. This journey helps me feel closer to their legacy, express pride in who I am and where I come from, and carry a deep sense of gratitude and accomplishment.”
Gang Flag Warren:
“Culture was poured into me by my great grandparents who were the Big Chief and Big Queen of the Yellow Pocahontas before Tootie Montana. It was something I grew up in, something I’ve been around my whole life. I spent time around the White Eagles. I started with the Wild Apache as Flag Boy and later became the Gang Flag for the Young Generation Warriors. I’ve loved the culture since I was a kid, and want to keep it alive for my grandchildren and future generations.”
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