The Xavier University of Louisiana community is mourning the passing of Sybil Haydel Morial, a civil rights activist, and dedicated educator who left a memorable mark on her alma mater and the New Orleans community. She was 92 years old and a member of the class of 1952.
Born and raised in segregated New Orleans, Haydel Morial began her undergraduate journey at Xavier before transferring to Boston University, where she shared the campus with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her experiences being kicked out of Tulane University and her rejection from Loyola University solely because of her race ignited her lifelong commitment to fighting for equality and justice.
Fighting For Equality
Throughout her life, Haydel Morial confronted the harsh realities of racial discrimination in the Deep South with unwavering courage. When disqualified from membership in the League of Women Voters, she and a group of like-minded women took action and formed their own organization, CiCulSo. This racially inclusive group eventually evolved into the Louisiana League of Good Government, advocating tirelessly for voting rights for Black citizens.
As a teacher in New Orleans, she notably filed a lawsuit against the Orleans Parish School Board, challenging laws that prohibited educators from advocating for school integration.
In addition to her activism, Haydel Morial shared her life with her husband and fellow civil rights advocate Ernest “Dutch” Morial. He made history as the first African American to earn a law degree from Louisiana State University and became the first African American mayor of New Orleans.
In 1977, Haydel Morial returned to Xavier University, where she had been an administrator for nearly thirty years. She retired in 2005 as the vice president for external affairs, leaving a legacy of dedication and service.
Haydel Morial was particularly proud of the opportunities Xavier offered, including support for Black singers in opera, serving as a haven for the Freedom Riders, and its ongoing commitment to civic engagement and equity.
Remembering Sybil Haydel Morial
“Our love and prayers go out to the family of Sybil Haydel Morial. We remember her generous life and legacy and the deep, lasting connections that she and her family have maintained with Xavier University of Louisiana over many decades; we are inspired by her activism, leadership, steadfastness, and commitment to serve,” said Dr. Reynold Verret, president of XULA. “She has been neighbor to many, as taught in the parable of the Samaritan. A member of Xavier’s class of 1952 and a long-serving administrator here for 28 years, our university has been greatly blessed by her intellectual and personal gifts that manifest not only on this campus but throughout New Orleans, Louisiana, and worldwide. Her gift to all is enduring, and she will be sorely missed.”
