Voodoo-catholicism is another unique part of New Orleans culture.
Voodoo is a religion that finds its origins in West Africa and was part of the culture of black slaves that ended up in New Orleans. This religion was originally practiced in secret that served as a way for these people to cling to their culture, heritage, and in some ways their freedom. Throughout history, religion provides strength and unity to oppressed people. Voodoo, or more traditionally, Vodun is still practiced by the Aja, Ewe, and Fon peoples of Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Nigeria. Once in New Orleans, it developed into what is commonly known as voodoo.
Voodoo eventually merged with the other promote religion in the area, catholicism. While these two would appear to be in direct conflict and several traditionalists believed so, they blend quite nicely into a spirituality based on nature, God, and the honoring of ancestors. This enabled public figures such as Marie Laveau to rise to positions of influence and advocate for those in need while normalizing what was a sort of fringe religion. This form of spirituality is still practiced and one official temple across the street from Congo square. This remains a private practice and people within it are not largely vocal on the topic of their religion.
While still a quiet and small religion, the existence of voodoo-catholicism is a good example of the unique and rich culture New Orleans has and has had since its establishment.