Chicago Mayor Gifts Pope Leo XIV with Chicago Cubs Hat

During a recent visit to the Vatican, Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson presented Pope Leo XIV with a Chicago Cubs hat, among other items. Johnson led a delegation that included various political, spiritual, and business leaders, such as Antonio Romanucci from Chicago.

Romanucci is notable for his role as co-counsel alongside Ben Crump in a lawsuit for the family of George Floyd against the City of Minneapolis and its police department.

White Sox Celebration and More

The White Sox have unveiled a graphic commemorating Pope Leo XIV near the seats from their 2005 World Series. Interestingly, Pope Leo, known to support the White Sox, playfully declined to wear the Cubs hat, suggesting he was already sporting one.

On this occasion, Mayor Johnson also handed the Pope the keys to Chicago and extended an invitation for him to visit the city where he spent his formative years.

Pope Leo on Immigration

Pope Leo XIV expressed views on immigration, affirming that nations possess the right to manage their borders while advocating for humane treatment of migrants.

Johnson reminisced about the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Chicago on October 5, 1979, referring to it as “the most spiritually inspired day in Chicago’s history.” He proposed that Pope Leo return to celebrate Mass at Grant Park in 2027.

In his invitation letter, Johnson noted that, as a young priest, Pope Leo may have witnessed the crowd at John Paul II’s Mass, hinting at a potential return visit almost 50 years later to convey messages of hope and unity.

Working Together

Furthermore, the mayor’s office indicated their intention to collaborate with the Pope on various political matters. Johnson gifted Pope Leo letters from families of detained immigrants, pins related to sanctuary cities, and a hat proclaiming “Immigration Makes America Greater” as part of their ongoing initiatives and values.