7 Members of Zulu Krewe Have Died During COVID-19 Crisis
One of the most beloved and famous of our Louisiana Mardi Gras Krewes is really being hit hard during the coronavirus epidemic. The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club is famous not only for their elaborate second line celebrations, parade, and costumes during Mardi Gras, but for their extensive charitable and community works throughout the year. Their famous hand painted coconuts are a prized throw during carnival celebrations, and are worth more than gold to those who are lucky enough to catch one on Mardi Gras day.
According to NOLA.com, out of the 800 members of the krewe, it is estimated that seven have died during the pandemic, and that includes two that positively had coronavirus. At least 20 more have been hospitalized, are in quarantine, or have recovered from the highly contagious virus.
City Councilman Jay Banks, who is on the krewe's Board of Directors, tells NOLA.com 'seven members have died during the COVID-19 pandemic, and at least two of those had contracted the virus: Larry Hammond, the organization's Mardi Gras king in 2007, and Lusher Charter School sports coach Cornell Charles.' Check out video of this year's Zulu King below