YeMaYa, the first all-women walking parade in New Orleans marched in the French Quarter, Treme, and Marigny this Saturday as part of Ladyfest 2011. Its theme was “Every Women a Queen.”

Ann Marie Coviello, co-founder of the 6t’9 Social Aid & Pleasure Club and the Box of Wine walking parade, helped found YeMaYa, named for the Yoruban Goddess of the Sea, a mother figure and protector of women, children, and the ocean.

The parade brought together many of the city’s female marching groups, including the Pussyfooters, Lady Rollers, Camel Toe Lady Steppers, Lady Buckjumpers, Bearded Oysters, Sirens, Organ Grinders, Muff-A-Lottas, Cherry Bombs, Roux La La, Skinz n Bonez, and the Krewe of Drunken Whores. The Local Skank, “mostly women’s brass band” Mo’Lasses, and a chansons choir provided the music during the YeMaYa parade. New Orleans Ladies Arm Wrestling members acted as “security”.

All photos were taken by Kim Welsh.

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