Louisiana AG Liz Murrill said she will open an investigation into photos circulating of a racist image she says was displayed on a Krewe of Tucks parade float Saturday afternoon.
Murrill issued the following statement:
“I have seen photos and reports of a disgusting, vulgar, racist image displayed on a float in the Tucks parade. The Mayor and Chief of Police confirmed the report. I will immediately be opening an investigation and intend to hold the individuals responsible accountable. This conduct is absolutely abhorrent and entirely unacceptable. It is deeply disgraceful that anyone who was privileged to ride in a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade would choose to stain the entire Krewe and the event in this manner.”
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno issued a statement Saturday night.
Moreno writes: “Let me be clear: the display is deeply offensive, unacceptable, and has no place in our city. New Orleans is built on respect, diversity, and inclusion. Actions that seek to demean or intimidate any member of our community violate the very spirit of who we are. Our celebrations, particularly those where our children and families attend, should be spaces of joy and unity, not exposure to hateful or harmful imagery.
“I along with Council President Morrell have contacted Krewe of Tucks leadership to identify those responsible and ensure full accountability.”
City Council President JP Morrell also released a statement, writing:
“I’ve been made aware of the picture circulating on social media from a Float (allegedly Float 22) in the Krewe of Tucks that appears to depict a horrific hate crime. The Mayor and I have reached out to the leadership of the parade and will get to the bottom of this incident. What is depicted isn’t free speech, it’s a disturbing effigy meant to harm and intimidate families and children. This isn’t acceptable and no one is above accountability.”
Here’s the official statement in response from the Krewe of Tucks: “The offensive photos have been brought to our attention and we share the same sentiment as the Mayor. This behavior is intolerable and completely contrary to the beliefs and values that the Krewe of Tucks holds. We intend to fully investigate this incident and the responsible riders will no longer be permitted to have any association with the parade. The leadership wishes this had been brought to our attention during the parade because it would have been addressed immediately. This was brought to our attention through social media and we are immediately investigating. Since its inception, the Krewe of Tucks has been one of the most diverse parades in Mardi Gras. We are offended by this behavior and it will not be tolerated. Mardi Gras is a celebration of New Orleans and its diverse and rich culture. We apologize for this racist display during our parade and please know this is not who we are and we will address this swiftly.”
READ MORE:Louisiana AG probes racist image depicted on Tucks float
