Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV will be honoured with the 38th annual Liberty Medal on July 3, 2026, in Philadelphia, as the United States prepares to mark 250 years since its founding.
The award, presented by the National Constitution Center, recognises the Pope’s lifelong efforts to defend religious freedom, freedom of conscience and freedom of expression around the world. These values are also central to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
The ceremony will take place on Independence Mall, with Pope Leo XIV expected to deliver his acceptance speech live from the Vatican through a livestream. According to the Holy See Press Office, Pope has expressed deep gratitude for the honour, especially as Americans reflect on their history and the ideals of liberty that shaped the nation.
Organisers say the event will gather civic and religious leaders, along with members of the public, to reflect on how the principles set out in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution continue to influence the world today.
Since his election in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV has made dialogue between religions a key focus of his leadership. He has met leaders from different faiths, including Jewish, Muslim and Christian communities, encouraging mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. His approach presents religious freedom not just as a legal right but as part of human dignity, especially for minorities and people affected by conflict.
Vince Stango, interim president and chief executive of the National Constitution Center, said the institution is honoured to recognise the Pope’s consistent voice in support of human dignity and fundamental freedoms. He noted that Pope has often said that peace cannot exist without freedom of religion, thought and expression.
The Liberty Medal, created in 1988 and awarded by the National Constitution Center since 2006, honours individuals and organisations working to advance freedom across the globe. This year’s ceremony is part of wider Independence Week celebrations in Philadelphia, organised in partnership with city authorities and cultural groups.
The event also highlights the connection of Pope Leo XIV to the United States through Villanova University, where he studied.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the award aims to underline the continued importance of liberty and human rights in today’s world.