As Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born pope, celebrates his first anniversary, he reflects on key themes such as peace, human dignity, and advocacy against neo-colonialism. Over the past year, he has steadily found his voice in addressing pressing global issues, including migration and political tensions, notably taking a stand against Trump’s policies. His leadership has resonated deeply across various American communities, especially among Chicagoans who continue to support his mission through initiatives like food drives. From championing ecological causes to opposing nuclear weapons, Pope Leo’s papacy has proven to be transformative, marking a significant step for the Catholic Church in the modern world.