Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the esteemed Archbishop of New York, is set to receive the prestigious Canterbury Medal for his unwavering commitment to defending religious freedom both in the United States and around the world. This recognition, announced by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, will take place during the annual Canterbury Medal Gala on May 22, 2025, in New York City. The award honors individuals who have shown exceptional courage and dedication to upholding the principles of religious liberty.
In a statement from the Becket Fund, Cardinal Dolan was praised for his extensive contributions as a national Catholic leader and former president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), where he also chaired the Committee for Religious Liberty. Over his 15 years leading the Archdiocese of New York, Dolan has emerged as a prominent voice advocating for the rights of individuals to practice their faith freely.
Dolan remarked on the significance of religious freedom, stating, “It isn’t just about protecting what happens in church on Sundays — it’s about defending the right of every person to live their faith openly, every day of the week.” He emphasized that religious liberty is a divine gift that must be safeguarded for people of all faiths, underscoring its importance in a diverse society.
Mark Rienzi, President and CEO of the Becket Fund, commended Dolan’s influential role in shaping the national dialogue on religious freedom. “Cardinal Dolan’s leadership in the public square has shaped the national conscience on religious freedom and strengthened the resolve of those who defend it,” Rienzi stated. This accolade comes shortly after President Donald Trump appointed Dolan to his newly established Religious Liberty Commission, tasked with assessing the state of religious liberty in America and proposing strategies to enhance protections for future generations.
The Canterbury Medal has previously been awarded to notable figures such as former Senators Orrin Hatch and Mitt Romney, radio host Eric Metaxas, and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, making Dolan’s recognition particularly significant as he is the first Catholic leader to receive this honor since Archbishop Charles Chaput in 2009.
In addition to the Canterbury Medal, the Becket Fund will also present the Legal Service Award to the law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP for its work combating antisemitism on college campuses, specifically in the ongoing case of Frankel v. Regents of the University of California. This lawsuit addresses the controversial "Jew exclusion zones" established at UCLA amid protests related to the recent conflict involving Hamas.
As the gala approaches, the spotlight remains on Cardinal Dolan, whose steadfast advocacy for religious freedom continues to resonate within the Christian community and beyond. His leadership serves as an inspiration for many, reminding us all of the vital importance of protecting the right to practice one’s faith openly and without fear.
For more information on the Becket Fund and its initiatives, visit their official website here.