When the Sudan Social Aid & Pleasure Club jumps out of the doors of the Treme Center, all eyes excitedly turn to the members’ striking attire and accessories. The organization, founded in 1983 and set to roll on November 9 for its 31st anniversary parade, is noted for its beautifully decorated and imaginative fans, baskets, umbrellas and shoulder pieces.

“That was handed down to us,” explains Bernard Robertson, one of the club’s founders and its chairman-at-arms. He explains that Jerom...