Sybil Haydel Morial passed away on September 23, 2024. She was 91. A civil rights activist, she was a passionate voice for women’s suffrage and racial equality. Following the passage of the federal Civil Rights Act, she worked hard to implement racial equality at the local level in Louisiana. In a recorded documentary, she stated, “We wanted to be a part of the change when it came, and we did.”
In the late 1970s and early 80s, she held one of the most powerful titles in New Orleans as the wife of Mayor Ernest Morial. In office, she advocated for Black representation in all areas of New Orleans’ government and education institutions. Her work extended to numerous boards and advisory bodies at the local, state and national level. She also wrote a memoir titled “Witness to Change.”
As a beloved member of the New Orleans (LA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, Sybil Haydel Morial served as Chapter President from 1976 through 1978. Her mother, Eudora Haydel was one of the New Orleans chapter’s founding members in 1957. It goes without saying that Mrs. Morial was a tireless advocate for the underserved in the New Orleans community. The chapter is forever grateful for her friendship, her leadership, and her service through the years.