New Orleans council meeting addresses Mardi Gras parade violations

Heated discussion over racist dolls, aggressive throws, and other code violations

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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At an emotional City Council meeting, leaders of New Orleans Mardi Gras parading groups addressed several incidents that marred this year's celebration, including the use of Carnival throws as projectiles, advertising, and racist symbols. The most contentious issue was the Tucks parade's decision to ban two riders who tossed Black and White Barbie-like dolls hanging by the neck, which was seen as a racist and violent act. Other violations discussed included aggressive bead throwing, ejections of entire float riders, and the throwing of koozies promoting a THC beverage.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a cherished New Orleans tradition, but the recent incidents have raised concerns about public safety, adherence to parade rules, and the need to address racist and violent behavior from some participants. The council meeting aimed to address these issues and propose solutions to prevent similar problems in future Carnival seasons.

The details

At the City Council's Governmental Affairs Committee meeting, leaders of Mardi Gras parading groups discussed several violations of the city's Mardi Gras codes. This included the Tucks parade's decision to ban two riders who tossed Black and White Barbie-like dolls hanging by the neck, which was seen as a racist and violent act. Other violations included 41 members of the Krewe of Carrollton being removed for aggressively throwing beads at police, all riders on a Krewe of Thoth float being ejected for throwing beads at audience members with anti-ICE signs, a Zulu float rider striking a 4-year-old child with a liquor bottle, and the Krewe of Freret throwing koozies promoting a THC beverage, which is against Mardi Gras rules.

  • On Feb. 8, 41 members of the Krewe of Carrollton were removed from their float.
  • A week later, all of the riders on a Krewe of Thoth float were ejected.
  • On Fat Tuesday, a Zulu float rider struck a 4-year-old child with a liquor bottle.

The players

Lloyd Frischhertz

Founder of the Tucks parade.

Mark Frischhertz

Son of Tucks founder Lloyd Frischhertz.

Jason Hughes

City Council member who emphasized that the hanged dolls were unmistakably racist.

Lesli Harris

City Council member who said the hanged dolls were an unequivocal symbol of violence against women.

JP Morrell

City Council president who proposed a new registry of banned riders to prevent offenders from jumping to other parades.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.