Hail Zulu! Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club makes 2024 Mardi Gras roll

Raeven Poole
·1 min read
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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The Krewe of Zulu has made its way to Gallier Hall where Mayor LaToya Cantrell raised a glass to royalty, wishing them well on their ride through the city.

The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club began their ride at 8 a.m. at the corner of South Claiborne and Jackson avenues.

Toast to King Zulu

Hailing as King Zulu for 2024 is longtime club member, Melvin Labat. In his 26 years, he has been known to have the longest tradition of community service in the organization year-round. His favorite event to host is the Toys for Tots giveaway.

Tune into WGNO’s Mardi Gras special this Fat Tuesday

“The Toys for Tots program is my favorite. As a kid growing up in the Seventh Ward, we used to go to the auditorium to get a toy. I’ve always promised myself that if I can make a difference to do something in the community, I would do it,” said Labat.

Toast to Queen Zulu

Hailing as Queen Zulu is Angelique Roch. Royalty runs in her blood as her mother reigned as Queen Zulu in 1996 while her sisters were also maids.

Roche said her first time attending the parade was at three months old.

“I also want to thank the city of New Orleans, because Mardi Gras is one of the things that brings everything, holds our culture and our community. It continues to show who we are not just as a city but as people,” said Roche.

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