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The history of the tradition of Black Masking Indians is believed to date back several hundred years to the early 1700s when enslaved people were aided in their escape by indigenous groups. When Black communities were not allowed to participate in the larger celebration of Mardi Gras, they began their own tradition.

“There are three elements to presenting oneself as an Indian, Chief Zulu says. Firstly, masking. ‘It’s an African tradition. Once you put a mask on, you’re not a person any more,’ he says. ‘You become the energy or entity of what it is you’re masking.’ The second is procession, as in moving through the streets of New Orleans. The third is ritual, which is realized by the long process of hand-beading and hand-sewing the suits.”

Afar.com

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