Another group of women who left the Krewe of Nyx amid recent controversy have formed a new organization and found a new Krewe to parade with.
After last week's announcement that the Mystical Order of the Phoenix would parade with the Knights of Sparta, we now know that the new Krewe of Themis will team up with the Krewe of Freret to parade in Mardi Gras.
"The Krewe of Freret, a flourishing co-ed Carnival krewe that in 2020 joined forces with Trombone Shorty, announced today their partnership with the new Krewe of Themis, a diverse group of women of all socio-cultural backgrounds," according to a news release.
It says that hundreds of riders within the Krewe of Themis will parade in conjunction with Freret under both krewes’ banners.
Themis leaders describe it as an organization focused on social justice.
Both Themis and Freret will participate in the annual Shorty Gras after-party with Trombone Shorty at Mardi Gras world.
“On behalf of the Krewe of Themis riders I couldn’t be prouder to join a Carnival organization that truly values diversity, inclusion, and giving back to the citizens of New Orleans,” said Krewe of Themis President, Kimya Holmes. “We are grateful to bring another burst of energy and an infusion of exuberance into the growing Krewe of Freret group as we expand their ongoing outreach, philanthropy, and events with our mission and by including several hundred enthusiastic new members.”
Meanwhile Freret leaders are excited to see their ranks grow.
“The Krewe of Freret is honoring our valued duty to serve all of our community by offering this excellent new group, the Krewe of Themis, not only a prominent place in our parade, but respected decision-making positions within our krewe leadership as well,” said Bobby Hjortsberg, Krewe of Freret Captain. “We believe that combining our efforts and unifying at all levels will greatly benefit the city of New Orleans, parade spectators, and our growth as an organization.”
Today's announcement happened at Mardi Gras World.
“I believe these are two of the most exciting groups in Carnival today and this only bolsters the Krewe of Freret’s trajectory of becoming the next superkrewe,” said Barry Kern, President of Mardi Gras World and Kern Studios. “With this important unification, you will continue to see an enhanced production value of the parade and the thrilling new Shorty Gras concert.”
There is now a battle behind the scenes to see who can claim the title of largest krewe in Mardi Gras. That was Nyx, but it is still to be seen how big Nyx will be after mass desertions in the wake of the scandal.
Many of the Nyx members and leaders departed after the krewe's captain, Julie Lea, posted "All Lives Matter" to social media in response to recent Black Lives Matter protests and rallies in the wake of police killings.
Some insiders say that Iris is one of the biggest benefactors with membership surging in the all female krewe. Sparta and Freret are also making moves to see significant growth.
It is not clear if Nyx will even parade in the next Mardi Gras.