Friends of Culture

By President Marilyn LaForce

MISSION STATEMENT: Friends of Culture provides a cultural link between the Greater New Orleans area and the island nations of the Caribbean. Through this link, Friends of Culture shares the rich and festive traditions of the Caribbean with the general public through its hosting of Bayou Bacchanal: The Caribbean Festival of New Orleans, highlighting Soca music and dances of the region. Additionally, Friends of Culture is able to use its political connections to assist island nation nationals with official paperwork and embassy affairs.

Friends of Culture was formed in 2001 as a non-profit organization by members of the New Orleans community who are originally from the Caribbean. The organization strives to strengthen the Caribbean community and to share its rich culture with the city of New Orleans. Throughout the year, Friends of Culture holds various events, but its crown achievement is the annual Caribbean festival known as Bayou Bacchanal.

Friends of Culture was registered as a non profit (501 C 3) in Louisiana on June 22, 2001 by Marilyn LaForce, the president of Friends of Culture. Marilyn and her dedicated staff have worked diligently with community leaders, businesses, the Caribbean community, and diplomats to establish a voice for people of the Caribbean.

"Nothing good comes without struggle; Taking an inspiration and seeing it manifest in so many different ways was worth every risk and difficult moment. I love to see my people smiling and sharing our culture."
-- Marilyn LaForce, President

Friends of Culture depends on donations to make Bayou Bacchanal happen every year. If you would like to make a donation, please use our Pay Pal account below. Be sure to send an email with your information and amount of donation to receive your tax deduction receipt.