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The Black Men of Labor get ready to step out from their headquarters on St. Claude Avenue
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Younger players keeping music traditions alive — Photo courtesy of Derek B
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Black Men of Labor founding members Greg Stafford (far left) and Fred Johnson (far right)
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The Black Men of Labor organize a second line parade each Labor Day weekend to honor the city's workers, including the many brass band musicians who work to make New Orleans' culture distinct.
Black Men of Labor formed in 1993 after the death of jazz musician Danny Barker, and the the Social Club has advanced Barker's mission of maintaining traditional styles by hiring traditional brass bands to march in their parade and offering mentorship programs for younger musicians.
Matt Sakakeeny asked co-founders Greg Stafford, a jazz trumpeter and school teacher, and Fred Johnson, an Outreach Specialist at the Neighborhood Development Foundation, about parade music and culture.
- WWOZ
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