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Krewe of ALLA Makes History this week with First Black King and Queen for 2025 Parade Oldest New Orleans Carnival Krewe to feature Black royalty in citywide celebration King and Queen honor Civil Rights Icon credited with desegregating old line carnival organizations
(NEW ORLEANS, LA) – In a historic first for New Orleans Mardi Gras, the Krewe of ALLA, the fifth-oldest parading organization in New Orleans, crowns its first Black King and Queen for their upcoming parade this Wednesday night.
ALLA is the oldest predominantly White New Orleans Mardi Gras organization to have a Black King and Queen. Their crowning marks a tribute to former New Orleans City Councilmember and Civil Rights pioneer Dorothy Mae Taylor, whose 1992 law desegregated Mardi Gras krewes, paving the way for a more inclusive celebration of New Orleans culture.
James Carter, a former New Orleans City Councilmember and Port of New Orleans Board Member, will reign as King alongside Gian Durand, founder and Chief Operating Officer of Loving Hearts of Louisiana and Secretary of the Louisiana Democratic Party, as Queen. Together, they represent the Krewe’s commitment to inclusivity and celebrating excellence in the local community. In addition, New Orleans City Council President JP Morrell will serve as this year’s parade Grand Marshal.
Durand and Carter’s selection as royalty represents a new era for a Mardi Gras, a direct reflection of Taylor’s vision for inclusive and representative celebration which dates to 1856 when the Krewe of Comus formed in the Crecent City. Taylor made history as the first Black woman elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives and later as a New Orleans Councilmember, where she passed a landmark ordinance calling for all krewes who use city services to adopt non-discriminatory policies.
Durand and Carter’s selection as royalty represents a new era for a Mardi Gras, a direct reflection of Taylor’s vision for inclusive and representative celebration which dates to 1856 when the Krewe of Comus formed in the Crecent City. Taylor made history as the first Black woman elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives and later as a New Orleans Councilmember, where she passed a landmark ordinance calling for all krewes who use city services to adopt non-discriminatory policies.
2025 ALLA Queen Gian Durand shared her excitement about her upcoming reign: “As a child, I dreamed of being a Carnival queen, but I never imagined it would become a reality, especially as opportunities for Black women in Mardi Gras krewes were so limited. The Krewe of ALLA represents what Mardi Gras should look like–where everyone can live out their dreams.”
This announcement comes as the Krewe prepares to roll in a new, coveted time slot on Wednesday evening, February 26, 2025, along the historic St. Charles Avenue parade route. The theme for 2025, “Only a Matter of Time,” will feature exquisitely revamped floats, an expanded lineup of marching bands and dance groups, and the Krewe’s signature hand-decorated genie lamp throws.
“The Krewe of ALLA has always been about bringing people together,” said Captain Adam Strickland. “Moving to this new time slot and celebrating our first Black King and Queen is a testament to our commitment to progress, diversity, and honoring the unique spirit of Mardi Gras.”
Founded in 1932 in Algiers, Louisiana, the Krewe of ALLA takes its name as a nod to its origins, combining the initials of “Algiers, Louisiana” in the same way “NOLA” represents New Orleans. Since moving to the Uptown parade route a decade ago, the Krewe has grown into a vibrant, co-ed, and family-friendly organization with a rich history and a dedicated focus on inclusivity.
Membership in the Krewe remains open to individuals of all backgrounds, including children aged 13 and older, making ALLA a true reflection of the diverse fabric of New Orleans.
For more information about the Krewe of ALLA and its 2025 parade, visit www.kreweofalla.net.
About the Krewe of ALLA
Founded in 1932, the Krewe of ALLA is one of the oldest and most cherished Mardi Gras organizations in New Orleans. Known for its rich traditions, vibrant parades, and dedication to community engagement, ALLA celebrates the culture and spirit of the Crescent City year-round. From its annual parade during Carnival season to creative events like the ALLA-ween Scavenger Hunt and the ALLA Bash, the Krewe brings people together through fun, inclusive, and unique New Orleans experiences.
