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Friday, January 20th 2012

10:57 PM

Moko Jumbies Video - U.S. Virgin Islands

Celebrations on the island of St Croix, USVI always feature stilt walkers called Moko Jumbies.

In West Indian tradition, the Moko is the village watcher - looking out for danger from his great towering height. The name is believed to have originated in Nigeria and the Congo, and means African God. 

The Moko is a "diviner” and is represented by men on stilts who perform acts beyond normal human ability, rising to the skies without assistance. 

Jumbies represent either good or evil, and are supernatural beings who cannot be seen by non-believers. In traditional West Indian folklore, they can be ancestors as well as a bridge to the spiritual world.

Enjoy the dance of the colorful Moki Jumbies



Video Uploaded to YouTube by Visit USVI





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