Civil Rights Activist Sybil Morial Dies at 91

Sybil Morial, a prominent civil rights activist and widow of New Orleans' first Black mayor, Ernest N. 'Dutch' Morial, was honored during her funeral services at Xavier University, attended by First Lady Jill Biden, former ambassador Andrew Young, and Rev. Al Sharpton. Morial, who passed away at 91, was celebrated for her lifelong commitment to social justice, with attendees recalling her impact on racial and gender equality. Young described her life as 'magical and spiritual,' while Sharpton emphasized her contributions to societal progress, highlighting that 'all of us are better' because of her activism. Tributes were also sent by Vice President Kamala Harris and the Clintons, who praised her barrier-breaking legacy. Morial's journey began in segregated New Orleans, where her early acts of defiance foreshadowed her future advocacy for civil rights. The two-day celebration included musical tributes and reflections on her life, culminating in a traditional second line and private burial.