Proudly Black: Super Bowl Edition

Photo via nola.com

As an avid fan of the NFL this year I wasn't so excited to watch the game but rather watch the displays of this year's NOLA Super Bowl logo.  Each year the logo changes to represent the host city of the game making this the eleventh year NOLA has hosted. The NFL chose Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams, a New Orleans native and a queen of the Golden Eagles tribe known for her intricate beadwork to create this year's logo along with memories that will live with her forever.

Many have never heard of the Golden Eagles tribe also known as Black Masking Indians and their traditions that entail centuries-old art forms that originated as a celebration on the backstreets when people of color were excluded from mainstream Mardi Gras festivities. It's because of her uncle, a member of the Wild Magnolias tribe, that she became involved in the Golden Eagles tribe at only nine years old.

 A Black Masking is a New Orleans tradition that blends African, Native American, and Caribbean influences. They have a deep-rooted history that dates back to the 18th century when enslaved Africans interacted with Native Americans in the New Orleans area providing safe refuge and a sense of community for runaway slaves, creating a blend of cultures and traditions. There are now over 40 Black Masking tribes throughout the city. Williams hopes that her art will raise awareness and inspire a new generation to keep the deep and rich stories of her ancestors and community alive.

The logo isn't the only display of William's work it was featured on digital game tickets, the official program cover, and the exterior of the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Her work represents her tribe and its own customs, traditions, history, and, of course, style. The Mardi Gras Indian suits worn at the Super Bowl are hand-sewn creations that feature intricate beadwork and dramatic images and rank among the nation's best folk art. These can take up to a year to finish and because of the complex craftmanship can cost thousands of dollars.

In her work, she keeps the intent to honor the cultural roots of New Orleans and celebrate the city's vibrant spirit in mind. Williams's work puts Black Masking culture, artistry, and fashion on one of the biggest stages in American sports. Williams has also graced the cover of Essence magazine this past June, attended the 2022 Grammy's, starred in a music video with Jon Baptise, and has been featured in a short documentary for teenVogue. Her resume is quite remarkable and I am sure we will see more of her work being represented at award shows, performances, to dressing the streets of New Orleans.

To keep tabs on Tahj Williams follow her on Instagram @thequeentahj and check out her website

https://www.queentahj.com/

References:

Russo, A. (2025, February 7). Mardi Gras Indians: New Orleans. New Orleans & Company. https://www.neworleans.com/things-to-do/music/history-and-traditions/mardi-gras-indians/#:~:text=Both%20hierarchical%20and%20territorial%2C%20there,and%20the%20Golden%20Feather%20Hunters.

Mardi Gras Indians: New Orleans. New Orleans & Company. (n.d.). https://www.neworleans.com/things-to-do/music/history-and-traditions/mardi-gras-indians/#:~:text=Both%20hierarchical%20and%20territorial%2C%20there,and%20the%20Golden%20Feather%20Hunters.