2002 – Kofi Annan Receives Liberty Medal in Philadelphia

On June 11, 2002, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan was awarded the Liberty Medal in Philadelphia for his work promoting global peace, human rights, and development. Annan, a native of Ghana and the first Black African to lead the UN, shared the honor with the United Nations itself. The Liberty Medal, established to commemorate the U.S. Constitution’s bicentennial, recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership in securing liberty worldwide. Annan’s leadership during international crises, commitment to HIV/AIDS awareness, and advocacy for the Millennium Development Goals were cited as reasons for his selection. His award symbolized the growing global influence of African leadership and the potential for diplomacy to advance justice. Annan would later receive the Nobel Peace Prize, further solidifying his place in world history.