For a better understanding of the masking traditon, see Nikesha Williams book, Mardi Gras Indians. To understand the importance and depth of the traditon, Williams writes, “Inside a suit of beads and feathers these men and women Black and free, pretty and proud, and, most importantly, returned unto themselves; they are bridging the gap of erasure that was lost at every door of no return and on the many routes of the trail of tears.”