Expressions of a Culture – The 2023 Black History Parade Rolls Through Natchitoches!

Over 30 units rolled through our city Saturday, February 25 in the Natchitoches Black History Parade. The parade, themed “Expressions of a Culture”, began on Texas St., went through Martin Luther King St. and concluded at the Ben D. Johnson Center.

Natchitoches City Attorney, Alex Washington, served as Grand Marshal. Local civil rights icon and hero Elnora Robertson followed.  Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams and First Lady Tiffany Williams were on hand for the second Black History Parade of his term. A group of sharp looking and well drilled NCHS Army Junior ROTC cadets led the parade with the American flag. Community leaders from the school board and city council were joined by churches, dance teams and civic groups. Eager spectators lined the route as the parade rolled by. Children were treated to candy and throws from the parade’s many participants. The parade ended at the Ben D. Johnson Center and was followed by a Black History Program at a local park.

The Natchitoches Black History Parade was more than family fun. The event was also a celebration of the history, resiliency and accomplishments of our parish’s African-American community.