For the first time, the "Savage" character of Wallonia's historic procession is set to be fully replaced after years of accusations of racism.
The Ducasse d’Ath is a traditional parade held for over 500 years. In 1837, the "Savage" appeared for the first time on the Neapolitan Fishermen float of the parade. The character was painted in black and wore a large nose ring. For years the character has been accused of blackface and of promoting racist stereotypes. In 2022, the representation of the Savage character cost the Ducasse d’Ath its UNESCO heritage status.
The controversial character is expected to be replaced by the "Devil of Gavatao" on the Neapolitan Fishermen float on 25 August. The history of the character was rewritten by the team of fishermen on the float.
The new character will have red face paint instead of black, small horns, a gold headband to resemble a crown, and new nose jewel designed to be more angular. Despite the new outfit, the character will retain some parts of the "Savage’s" costume, such as the loincloth, necklace, feathered hat, and black hands.
