Pope Leo XIV accepted the National Constitution Center's Liberty Medal in a virtual address from the Vatican, celebrating America's immigrant history and calling for unity based on timeless ideals amid a stark contrast with President Trump's policies.
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff, delivered a poignant virtual address from the Vatican to accept the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on July 3.
The ceremony, held on the eve of America's 250th anniversary, was an interfaith event that highlighted the pope's steadfast advocacy for immigrants and his call for national unity. Speaking to a cheering audience in Philadelphia beamed onto a screen, Leo, who wore the medal alongside a cross, invoked divine blessings for the United States' future. He prayed that the lofty ideals of the Declaration of Independence would continue to guide the nation toward flourishing in unity, justice, and peace.
In his remarks, the pope emphasized the historic American tradition of welcoming immigrants, noting how successive waves of newcomers and their children have shaped the nation's destiny. He acknowledged that embodying these ideals of freedom and justice has been a continuous and sometimes difficult project, stating that building such a society is "still a work in progress.
" His presence at the ceremony, though virtual, was laden with significance due to his declining an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend the Fourth of July celebrations in Washington. This decision, juxtaposed with a planned visit to Lampedusa-a key arrival point for migrants in the Mediterranean-sends a powerful message amid the Trump administration's push for mass deportations.
The National Constitution Center selected Pope Leo for the award citing his lifelong work promoting religious liberty and freedom of conscience, core First Amendment ideals, and also because he is the first American-born pope with deep ties to Philadelphia, having been educated at Augustinian institutions in the region. Julie Silverbrook, chief content and learning officer for the center, described Leo as a global leader uniquely shaped by American ideals, whose ministry reflects a belief in the inherent dignity of all.
His message, while avoiding direct naming of the president, was a clear defense of inclusive values. In April, Trump had publicly criticized the pope on social media, calling him weak and accusing him of catering to the radical left for his criticisms. The pope, however, has consistently stated he has "no fear" of the administration and feels called to loudly proclaim the Gospel's message.
In his Philadelphia speech, Leo called for national unity but warned that it must be founded on enduring ideals that do not fade with time. The ceremony included the presentation of the medal by representatives who had planned to travel to the Vatican, bearing gifts such as Villanova memorabilia and a replica of George Washington's Acts of Congress, underscoring his personal and symbolic connections to the city.
The event served as a prelude to the semiquincentennial, prompting reflection on the enduring values that have emanated from Philadelphia for 250 years and their global resonance through the pope's advocacy
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