For Black New Orleanians, Mardi Gras is a sacred tradition rooted in resistance, with an instinctive routine and complex history. As regions throughout the country operate as usual for a regular Tuesday, the people of New Orleans and other cities along the Gulf Coast will prepare for the biggest celebration of our calendar year-Mardi Gras Day. Mardi Gras in New Orleans often holds an external perception of beads, Bourbon Street, and unruly, celebratory chaos. For Black New Orleanians, it is a sacred tradition rooted in resistance, with an instinctive routine and complex history.