Page 38 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Spring, 2025

COMMUNITIES
100 Men Hall | Adrian Raso 38PLAYCOASTALMISSISSIPPI I SPRING2025
Story by Lynn Lofton
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a cultural melting pot. Few people would challenge that statement, especially if they’ve lived or traveled in other parts of the state. The Coast’s many cultures and ethnic groups have created a rich, cosmopolitan tapestry that makes a lively mix. It’s evident in names, food, art, celebrations, and much more.
Native tribes were here to welcome French explorers Bienville and D’Iberville, the first Europeans who landed in the area. Those first peoples left their mark in the names of towns and rivers such as Biloxi, Pascagoula, and Tchoutacabouffa. Likewise, the first settlers lent their names to towns, including Bay St. Louis, Saucier, Gautier, and D’Iberville.
A vital part of this “gumbo” of culture has been the African American population, who continue to lead and inspire. Angie Juzang, Vice President of Marketing at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, says that Black history is American history. “We were architects of the fabric of American building, raising crops, caring for babies, and helping to establish tourism here with cooking and cleaning to make the Coast a tourist destination,” she said.
The disenfranchisement of African Americans led to blues music, which inspired other forms of music, including Elvis’ rock and roll. “We’ve gone on to be influential in all areas of life, including elected officials across the Coast,” Juzang added.
Among the groups keeping their cultural identities alive are the Irish with the Hibernia Marching Society, which was started in 1978 by John O’Keefe. His daughter-in-law, Celeste O’Keefe, says many Irish came to America during the potato famine in Ireland and spread out
across the country.
“All Irish descendants have been a big influence on the Coast,”
she said. “Living here is absolutely more interesting because of all the cultural influences we have.”
St. Patrick’s Day events are big for Coast Irish. “On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone is Irish, including Mayor FoFo O’Gilich,” O’Keefe said.
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