Cardinal Prevost: A Historic Heritage as Pope Leo XIV
In a groundbreaking revelation, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, newly elected Pope Leo XIV, has ancestral ties to Creole heritage from New Orleans. Historical records indicate his maternal grandparents, Joseph Martinez and Louise Baquié, described as Black or mulatto, lived in the culturally rich Seventh Ward, a hub of diverse roots.
Martinez and Baquié relocated to Chicago in the early 20th century, where their daughter, Mildred Martinez, was born. Recent findings by genealogist Jari C. Honora highlight that the new pontiff embodies the American narrative’s complexity and richness, not only as the first U.S.-born pope but also as a descendant of Creole people. Honora, intrigued by Prevost’s French surname, uncovered records evidencing his family’s connection to New Orleans.
The research includes marriage certificates and census documents confirming both grandparents as individuals of color, with Martinez’s birthplace listed as either Hayti or Louisiana. The narrative reflects the long-standing history of Black Catholics in America, which Honora hopes will be acknowledged and celebrated.
While the family did not publicly identify as Black, John Prevost, the pope’s brother, noted that their heritage was often unspoken. Louisiana’s Creole community has a rich history of mixed-race ancestry, contributing significantly to cultural facets like jazz and education.
The discovery resonates deeply with the Creole community. Lolita Villavasso Cherrie, a co-founder of the Creole Genealogical Association, emphasized that many have felt disconnected from their history until recent genealogical explorations became accessible through the internet.
This heritage will undoubtedly influence discussions about racial identity and diversity within the U.S., illustrating how intertwined America’s narratives can be.
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