Fiesta Pensacola has notified the Mayokis that the it will no longer hold a Landing Ceremony or formally send its court to the Mayoki Ball or pub crawl.
Why? Fiesta wrote, “Fiesta’s tacit endorsement of Mayokis presents a public relations, reputational and potential financial risk to Fiesta that we are no longer willing to bear.”
The fictitious Mayoki Indians tribe has taken part in Fiesta Pensacola activities since 1961. The all-White group dresses up in feathered headdresses, skimpy outfits and war paint and parades around town during the Fiesta activities. The Fiesta court traditionally has been met at Quietwater Beach by the Mayoki court the Saturday before the Fiesta Coronation Ball.
Many have questioned the appropriateness of non-Native people wearing dressing in costumes, mimicking tribal dances and using Native American-sounding names. In the past, at least, one business banned the group from “raiding” their office because of complaints of harassment made by female employees. The joke was the Mayokis thought their real identities were hidden when in costume.
The Fiesta board did state that the Mayoki “royalty” will continued to be presented at the Fiesta Coronation Ball. However, they are requested to wear formal attire in lieu of Mayoki costumes.
The letter closes, “Our friendship goes back over 60 years, and we all want that to continue. We hope that everyone in your organization can understand why we are making this decision. We value you and are not suggesting you change. We simply must control what is best for Fiesta.”
Read Mayoki Letter.