Pope Leo XIV to Receive National Constitution Center's Liberty Medal Virtually on July 3
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope, is set to receive the National Constitution Center's 38th Liberty Medal on July 3, on the eve of the United States' 250th anniversary. The ceremony will be held virtually, with Leo delivering his acceptance speech from the Vatican. The National Constitution Center selected Leo for his dedication to promoting religious liberty and freedom of conscience and expression worldwide, values that are fundamental to the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment. Leo, an alumnus of Villanova University, became the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics in May 2025, succeeding Pope Francis.
The ceremony will take place at Independence Mall, with Independence Hall as the backdrop, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. The event aims to highlight Philadelphia's historical significance in the nation's founding and will bring together civic and faith leaders to reflect on the founding ideals of the United States 250 years later. Vince Stango, the interim president and CEO of the NCC, emphasized that the Liberty Medal encourages contemplation of how the principles of freedom are passed down through generations and across the globe.
The National Constitution Center's decision to honor Pope Leo XIV underscores his commitment to upholding principles such as freedom of religion, thought, and expression, which are essential for peace, according to Stango. Leo's advocacy for these values aligns closely with the protections guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Liberty Medal has been previously awarded to notable figures such as U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, U.S. Sen. John McCain, and Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush, and George W. Bush, among others.
In conclusion, the upcoming award ceremony for Pope Leo XIV reflects the National Constitution Center's recognition of his tireless efforts to advance religious liberty and freedom of expression globally. The event will serve as a platform to celebrate the enduring values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and to honor Leo's contributions to promoting these ideals.