Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago, has a rich family history that reflects the diverse fabric of American culture. His maternal grandparents, Joseph Martinez and Louise Baquié, were Black or mixed-race individuals who resided in New Orleans’ Seventh Ward before relocating to Chicago in the early 20th century. They had a daughter, Mildred Martinez, who became the pope’s mother.
Their story was uncovered by genealogist Jari C. Honora and confirmed by the pope’s older brother, John Prevost. This discovery is a significant moment for Black Catholics and highlights the long, often-overlooked history of people of color in the U.S.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/05/09/world/pope-leo-xiv-news/heres-the-latest
