1987 – Aretha Franklin Receives Honorary Degree from Harvard

On June 2, 1987, Aretha Franklin was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree by Harvard University, one of the first Black women to receive such a distinction from the Ivy League institution. Known as the \”Queen of Soul,\” Franklin had already made an indelible mark on music and civil rights. The degree recognized not only her unmatched vocal talent but also her cultural impact and lifelong advocacy for racial justice. By honoring Franklin, Harvard acknowledged the deep intellectual and social significance of Black artistry in American history. The award helped elevate Franklin into the pantheon of cultural icons, influencing future academic recognition of artists whose work transcends entertainment. It also reflected a growing institutional shift toward inclusion and respect for African American contributions across fields.