The Ernest "Dutch" Morial papers primarily contain speeches given by Morial during his time as Mayor of New Orleans (1978-1986). The speeches cover a wide variety of topics including budget and financial issues, economic development in New Orleans, immigration, crime, environmental affairs, and unemployment and homelessness. The speeches are delivered before a wide variety of audiences including the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM), the New Orleans City Council, the National Bar Association, the United States Senate and House of Representatives, and several “Reports to the People” delivered over radio. Also included are several speeches given by Sybil Morial, wife of Ernest “Dutch” Morial, which cover topics such as women’s empowerment and rights. The speeches section also includes statements and speeches delivered by New Orleans City Council members and prominent government employees as well as speeches from fellow United States Mayors.

The collection includes correspondence dating from Morial’s time as an Appellate Judge, Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit, New Orleans, Louisiana and continues on through his second term as Mayor of New Orleans. The majority of the correspondence is regarding Morial seeking appointment to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The letters are often recommendations appealing to members of Congress, the Senate, and the Executive Branch to appoint a Black lawyer to the position.

There are some photographs included in the papers, mainly depicting campaign events in support of Morial’s mayoral campaign. Additionally, campaign ephemera such as brochures and bumper stickers, as well as financial documents are included. Awards and certificates given to Morial are featured in the papers, and collected publications celebrating his accomplishments and future plans.