Pope Leo XIV marks the United States’ 250th birthday during an acceptance speech for the 2026 Liberty Medal, the National Constitution Center announced. Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, the pope—described as Chicago-born and the first American pontiff—addresses the occasion while receiving the award. The Liberty Medal is presented by the National Constitution Center to an individual who, in the organization’s description, works to secure “the blessings of liberty for people around the globe.”
In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV highlights the United States’ tradition of welcoming immigrants, linking that theme to the broader message of liberty reflected in the award’s purpose. CBS and The Hill both report that the pope uses the occasion of America’s 250th anniversary as part of his speech after receiving the medal. Both outlets also identify the awarding body and the timing of the event, presenting the pope’s celebration of the anniversary as central to the ceremony. No alternative details about the award criteria, event location, or additional honorees are reported in the provided sources.
