It is a long-standing tradition that dates back to more than 500 years.
But the Silurian Border Morrismen have voted to stop dancing with blacked up faces – and switch to green paint instead.
The Joint Morris Organisation representing 800 of the nation’s groups ruled last year that members should stop using black paint as a response to Black Lives Matter.
Silurian, a Silurian Morris hailing from Ledbury in Herefordshire stated yesterday it “wanted to stay on the right side” and that it is looking for a shade which doesn’t look too much like the Incredible Hulk.
The Silurian Border Morrismen have voted to stop dancing with blacked up faces – and switch to green paint instead (pictured, the Bacup Coconut Dancers)
This comes amid increasing controversy about white people painting black faces.
Blackface paint was once used to humanize black characters in theatre.
According to some, Morris Dancers initially blackened their faces in charcoal before they were able to beg for money.
Ian Craigan (Silurian foreman) said, “We are often asked why wear blackface. But in all of my life I have not been challenged on the basis that it is racist.”
“But we know of sidelines that have been subject to antagonism.
“We are looking for a side that is able to dance freely and where everybody can feel comfortable. And we welcome people from all walks of life.
In response to Black Lives Matter, the Joint Morris Organisation (representing 800 different groups in the country) ruled that black paint must be stopped by members last year
Following the success of Black Lives Matter, inspiration led the Silurian to decide.
These dances were based on historical records as well as first-hand accounts from dancers in the 1920s.
Morris dancing, a type of English folk dance to traditional music dating back to the middle 1400s, is an example.