Breaking New Ground: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Named New Pope with Rich Creole Heritage
In a historic election on Thursday, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, marking a significant moment as the first U.S.-born pope, revealed a deeper layer to his identity—his ancestry rooted in the Creole community of New Orleans. Prevost, who will take on the name Leo XIV, descends from Black and mulatto grandparents, Joseph Martinez and Louise Baquié, who lived in the city’s culturally rich Seventh Ward.
This revelation, unveiled by genealogist Jari C. Honora, traces the pope’s lineage back to a vibrant neighborhood that has long celebrated African, Caribbean, and European influences. The grandparents moved to Chicago in the early 20th century, where they had a daughter, Mildred, Prevost’s mother. Honora’s findings included marriage certificates, census records, and family photographs, confirming the family’s diverse heritage.
“This discovery highlights the rich history of Black Catholics in the U.S.,” said Honora. Although Prevost’s family did not publicly identify as Black, his brother, John, acknowledged their heritage as a topic rarely discussed.
The Creole community, often described as mixed-race individuals, has a storied past in Louisiana, influencing many cultural spheres, including the birthplace of jazz. Lolita Villavasso Cherrie, co-founder of The Creole Genealogical and Historical Association, expressed that this revelation carries immense significance, posing both as a validation of hidden histories and as a celebration of diversity.
While the new pope’s election was initially framed around his ecclesiastical journey in Chicago and Peru, the discovery of his Creole roots raises important conversations about identity in modern America. As the United States continues to grapple with issues of race and heritage, Leo XIV’s unique background serves as a reminder of the interwoven nature of American narratives.
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