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African Americans in Louisiana or Black Louisianians are residents of the US state of Louisiana who are of African ancestry; those native to the state since colonial times descend from the many African slaves working on indigo and sugarcane plantations under French colonial rule.
According to 2020 census data, the Black/African American alone population in Louisiana was around 1,464,023, which accounts for approximately 31% of the state’s total or 1,543,119 (Black in combination with one or more races) 33% of the states population.
From political barrier breakers and brave soldiers to literary leaders and gospel queens, African Americans have made a tremendous impact on Louisiana history and culture. Join us as we celebrate our Black history and heritage.
According to the 2020 US census, 57.1% of the total population were White Americans; 31.4% were Black or African American, 0.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.9% Asian, <0.0% Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, 3.1% some other race, and 5.9% two or more races.
Although most African-American planters, like their white counterparts, were ruined by the Civil War, other free people of color prospered in the war's wake. In politics, especially, they emerged as the leaders for Louisiana's black population.
In French and Spanish colonial Louisiana, enslaved Africans brought their culture with them–Mande, Ibo, Yoruba, among others. Their spiritual practice connected their communities and ancestors to spirits, called orishas by the Yoruba people and vodun by the Fon.
African Americans in Louisiana or Black Louisianians are residents of the US state of Louisiana who are of African ancestry; those native to the state since colonial times descend from the many African slaves working on indigo and sugarcane plantations under French colonial rule.
