Pope Leo XIV will be the recipient of the U.S. Medal of Freedom for defending religious liberties

Pope Leo XIV has been awarded the 38th annual Medal of Freedom for his longstanding efforts to promote freedom of religion, conscience and expression around the world. According to the official Vatican News, the award ceremony will be held on July 3, 2026 at the National Constitution Center (NCC) in Philadelphia, on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

An official statement from the National Constitution Center notes that the pontiff’s work is consonant with the ideals set forth by the U.S. Founding Fathers in the First Amendment to the Constitution. Pope Leo XIV is expected to participate in the ceremony remotely, presenting his address live from the Vatican. Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, emphasized that the pontiff is deeply grateful for this award at such a significant historical moment for the American people, calling for reflection on the legacy of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

Since his election in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV has made interreligious and ecumenical dialogue a priority of his pontificate, actively engaging with Jewish, Muslim and Christian leaders. NCC Interim President and CEO Vince Stango noted that the Holy Father has consistently defended the position that peace is impossible without freedom of religion and thought. These principles, according to organizers, are not just abstract rights but a living expression of human dignity, especially for marginalized groups and religious minorities.

The Medal of Freedom has been awarded since 1988 to individuals and organizations striving to bring freedom to people around the world. Notably, Villanova University, the alma mater of Pope Leo XIV, was involved in the preparation of this year’s program. The event will take place during Philadelphia’s Independence Week in partnership with the city and Wawa Welcome America, bringing together civic and religious leaders to discuss the relevance of American ideals in today’s global context.