Pope Leo XIV accepted the National Constitution Center's 38th Liberty Medal [1] on Friday, July 3, 2026 [2].
The award recognizes the pontiff's advocacy for religious freedom, interfaith dialogue, and justice. Coming as the U.S. celebrates 250 years [3], the honor highlights the intersection of Catholic leadership and American democratic ideals during a milestone anniversary.
Although the ceremony took place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pope Leo XIV delivered his acceptance speech via a live video address from the Vatican [4]. The center granted the medal to honor his efforts regarding peace, unity, and his support for immigrants [5].
In his address, the Pope focused on the historical role of faith in the development of the United States. He said how religious freedom allowed for a unique tradition of cooperation between different faiths to promote the public good [6].
"Religious freedom gave rise to the American tradition of allowing for interfaith dialogue and interreligious cooperation and promoting the public good and enriching the debates on the great moral and ethical issues that have faced the nation and shaped the course of its history," Pope Leo XIV said [6].
The 38th edition of the medal [1] is awarded annually to individuals who have significantly advanced the cause of liberty. The pontiff's virtual presence allowed him to engage with the Philadelphia event while remaining at the Holy See [4].
His remarks emphasized that the pursuit of justice and peace is a shared global responsibility. By linking religious liberty to the broader American experience, the Pope underscored the importance of pluralism in maintaining a stable and ethical society [5].
“The award recognizes the pontiff's advocacy for religious freedom, interfaith dialogue, and justice.”
The timing of this award coincides with the United States' semiquincentennial, signaling a strategic emphasis on religious pluralism and international diplomacy. By awarding the Liberty Medal to the Pope, the National Constitution Center reinforces the narrative that religious freedom is a foundational pillar of American identity, while the Pope's focus on immigrants and interfaith dialogue reflects the Vatican's ongoing priority to address global migration and social cohesion.
