As they have done every year for the past five decades, the pioneers of the earliest civil rights for gay Americans have come together to crown a king and a queen. New Orleans, Louisiana February 23, 2008
In the late 1950s, public association by homosexuals was against the law in all 50 states.
There were laws specifically targeting gay citizens in New Orleans.
At the Krewe of Armeinius headquarters, krewe members prepare for the 40th anniversary ball.
At their home across the river, King and Queen Armeinius the 40th prepare for coronation.
Mardi Gras Day was the only opportunity for gay people to legally gather in public.
Three weeks later, in January 1959-- Several gentlemen of the city decided to form a Mardi Gras krewe of their own. They called it the Krewe of Yuga or "KY".
Krewe of Petronius is founded in October 1961.
Krewe of Ganymede is founded in 1965.
Krewe of Apollo is founded in 1971.
In order to continue post-Katrina, the gay krewes have banded together, with some members belonging to several krewes.
The reigning captain of the Krewe of Petronius finishes the last minute decorations on his Armeinius 40th ball costume.
The gay men of New York City fight back during the riots known as "Stonewall", six months later.
The Krewe of Armeinius is founded in October, 1968.
Armeinius makes forty.
Selections from the Preservation Hall Jazz Band are from the album "An Album to Benefit Preservation Hall and the Preservation Hall Music Outreach Program."