New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin publicly recognized Attorney General Buddy Caldwell for his efforts to keep “Who Dat” and the fleur-de-lis as public domain. When Mayor Nagin acknowledged Caldwell from the podium at the Saints parade on Tuesday night, February 9, the crowds erupted in thunderous applause and cheers.

Attorney General Caldwell contacted the NFL the week before the Super bowl, prior to a request by the Governor’s office, after finding out about the League’s cease and desist letters sent to retailers who were selling “Who Dat” t-shirts and merchandise. After a positive conference call with the Attorney General and NFL officials, the League agreed with Caldwell when he said “Who Dat” and the fleur-de-lis are public domain.

“The fleur-de-lis has been on the St. Louis Cathedral for 250 years, long before the NFL came into existence,” proclaimed Caldwell. “This is part of Louisiana culture as is “Who Dat” which I remember saying when I played ball at Tulane 40 years ago.”