Pope Leo XIV reveals his Creole heritage from New Orleans

On May 8, 2025, Robert Francis Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking him as the first American to assume this role. His election is significant not only due to his nationality but also because of his Creole heritage that traces back to New Orleans, Louisiana. Records obtained from genealogists, including Jari C. Honora, indicate that Prevost's family has Black roots in New Orleans. This lineage was confirmed by his brother, John Prevost, and revealed that their family history reflects America's intricate racial history. Notably, the family of Prevost’s mother, Mildred Martinez Prevost, had lived as free people of color before relocating to Chicago in the early 20th century, which led to their racial identity being altered to 'pass' for white as a means of economic survival. The historical context of Creole ancestry is underscored by the family's ties to Spanish, French, and African heritage, indicative of the diverse cultural backgrounds present in Louisiana. As genealogists continue their research, it has emerged that Prevost's maternal grandparents were identified as Black in census records from the 1900s, and while they migrated to Chicago between 1910 and 1912, they shifted their racial identifiers, an occurrence common among families at that time aiming for better economic prospects. The City of New Orleans celebrated this revelation, acknowledging the importance of both Pope Leo XIV's background and the city's rich, multicultural tapestry. This new pope's election not only adds a historical facet to the papacy but also represents a broader narrative about race and identity within the United States, particularly in relation to the experiences of Creoles in Louisiana, who have played a crucial role in the state's history and culture. Thus, Pope Leo XIV's election serves as a reminder of the complex intersection of race, religion, and social structures in America. His lineage, deeply rooted in a city known for its vibrant history and diverse cultures, illustrates the powerful narratives that contribute to the understanding of contemporary American identity. The expressions of celebration from New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell emphasize a regional pride that resonates beyond religious affiliations, showcasing how the city's past continues to inform its present. As genealogists further investigate Pope Leo XIV's roots, they highlight the significance of free people of color and their foundational influence on culture and society, reinforcing the idea that heritage and identity remain dynamic themes in the ongoing American story.