Pope Leo selected his name in honor of Pope Leo XIII, a champion of social justice during the industrial revolution and a time of mass immigration. He shares similar values and has criticized U.S. immigration policies, including those of Donald Trump.
In 2012, he criticized media that promoted the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families,” reflecting traditional Catholic views. However, in 2023, he backed Pope Francis’ move to include women in church leadership, saying:
“On several occasions we have seen that their point of view is an enrichment.”
On climate change, Pope Leo has urged global leaders to shift “from words to action.” Like Pope Francis, he places high priority on supporting the poor and addressing inequality through the Church’s mission
