The latest tempest in a teapot about the Inaugural parade, is about ball gowns, and the young ladies from Mobile Alabama who wear them; the Azalea Trail Maids.
Alabama NAACP criticizes use of Trail Maids in Inaugural Parade
Montgomery, Ala. (WSFA) -- They're part of a long standing tradition that will soon become a part of Presidential history.
The head of the Alabama NAACP, however, wants Mobile's Azalea Trail Maids to stay home on Inauguration Day, claiming the group reminds him of slavery. "These are not just regular costumes. These are the costumes that remind someone of the plantation in Gone with the Wind," Edward Vaughn said in a phone interview.
Vaughn went on to say the group would be the laughing stock of the Inauguration. County leaders say nothing could be further from the truth.
"We want everyone to know that these young ladies do not need to be identified with slavery," said Mobile County Commissioner Stephen Nodine.
The Mayor of Mobile has responded
Friday, Mobile Mayor Sam Jones released this written statement:
"The Azalea Trail Girls represent the beauty of Mobile. After all, we are the Azalea city. We are extremely proud of their participation in President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration and can think of no better group that represents the character and diversity of our city to showcase at this historic event. As it relates to diversity, we would compare Mobile with any city in the state of Alabama. We are a diverse city representing people from all segments and walks of life. These girls epitomize that, and they are excellent ambassadors for Mobile."
Local media have covered the controversy and local legislators have added their opinions.
On parade: The Old South
State Rep. Alvin Holmes, the longest-serving black legislator in Alabama, sees nothing wrong with the selection of the Trail Maids -- especially since the court has 11 members of color. Eight are African Americans, one is Asian and two are of Indian descent, according to Andy Marasca, Mobile Jaycees president. The Jaycees oversees the group.
"I think it would be better for the image of the state of Alabama to have another group participate also," said Holmes, whose district is in Montgomery. "We have some top high school bands around the state of Alabama. But the fact that the Trail Maids are integrated, makes it OK to me. They didn't have anything to do with slavery."
Mobile County Commissioner Steve Nodine has demanded an apology from NAACP President Edward Vaughn
January 9, 2009
Mr. Edward Vaughn
President
NAACP Alabama State Conference
P.O. Box 9581
Dothan, AL 36304
Dear Mr. Vaughn
I am extremely disappointed in your criticism of Mobile’s Azalea Trail Maids and your call for this group to be removed from participation in the presidential inauguration.
Despite your claims, the Trail Maids do not represent the Confederacy or antebellum times but reflect the beauty of Mobile and its 300-plus years of fascinating history.
22% of the current Trail Maids are minority. How sad it would be if these girls especially were denied the opportunity to witness history as Barack Obama is inaugurated as our 44th president.
Mobile is one of the country’s fastest growing areas in terms of economic development. This would not be possible if the community were divided. Mobile is a place that strives to be inclusive and represent the needs of all citizens.
The Trail Maids have been ambassadors for Mobile County for almost 60 years. Competition to become a Trail Maid is extremely selective with only the brightest, most accomplished girls being chosen.
Over the years, the Trail Maids have helped welcome presidents, foreign dignitaries, celebrities, and other VIPs to Mobile. They have represented Mobile County across the nation at celebrated events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and at Presidential Inaugurations in 1985, and 2005.
Your comments about these exceptional young ladies were very hurtful and insensitive. I believe you owe them, and all citizens of Mobile County, an apology.
Respectfully:
Stephen D. Nodine
According the the groups organizer Andy Marasco, "39 are white, 8 are black and 3 are Asian."
Here's some video of the Trail Maids in prior parades (Macy's Thanksgiving Day and a local event)
To be honest, though historically few black women were parading around in flounced hoop skirts presiding over plantations, I'm far more interested in the history being made by Michelle Obama, a descendant of plantation slaves who will now make history as our first black First Lady and first hostess.
What do you think?