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Ending decades of racial exclusivity, Tampa's Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla confirmed Wednesday that black members have been accepted into its all-white ranks - triggering the return of their annual Gasparilla parade.
A new task force trying to revive Tampa's traditional celebration decided Wednesday afternoon that the Krewe's integration was the first step in planning a massive celebration of parties and parades.
The Gasparilla parade was canceled this year when the exclusive Krewe refused to admit black members as demanded by the Coalition of African-American Organizations.
Coalition spokesman Warren Dawson, who criticized the Krewe last fall, said his group was "quietly pleased to note the passing of this long tradition of segregation in our community."
Mayor Sandy Freedman, who lobbied the Krewe to accept black people, said she was delighted with the decision. Freedman said she was told of the invitation six weeks ago.
The Krewe's inclusion of two black men ends an era for the all-male, all-white club, which has played a major role in Tampa society and business. Although the Krewe abolished a rule in the early 1980s forbidding the admittance of black members, no black man was ever offered a spot on the Krewe's famous pirate...