Pope Leo XIV Addresses Immigration and Freedom in Virtual Speech

Pope Leo XIV delivered a virtual address to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, while accepting the Liberty Medal for his commitment to religious freedom. He emphasized the importance of America's history of welcoming immigrants, stating that the nation's founding principles have made it a symbol of freedom for many around the world. The Pope referenced the Declaration of Independence, highlighting the fundamental rights it guarantees. He expressed hope that America would remain true to its ideals of unity, justice, and peace, particularly in relation to supporting vulnerable populations, including migrants. Following his address, the Pope traveled to Lampedusa, Italy, a significant location for migrants seeking entry into Europe, where he reiterated the need for compassion and support for those in need. He criticized global indifference and corruption that contribute to the migrant crisis and called for comprehensive policies to address the issue while assisting developing countries.