NEW ORLEANS — The Feather Fund NOLA is a local nonprofit that aims to support local New Orleans culture in all its forms. One of its biggest initiatives is, for name's sake, raising money for culture bearers who mask as Indians.
The tradition has been a cornerstone of culture meant to honor Indigenous people who protected those who were enslaved.
Founder Chayil Jones said feathers are imported, so they are very costly. The organization aims to help elevate some of that cost so the masking culture can thrive. Year-round, they fundraise and focus on providing education and activities to promote the Aboriginal culture and programming for youth in high-need areas in the community.
Ahead of Super Bowl LIX, they are launching a cultural exchange guide. The electronic guide will feature an in-depth description of what every neighborhood has to offer, as well as local businesses and significant cultural hubs. The guide will be released soon.
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