Photo Credit: Getty Images
On October 21, 2024, President Joe Biden awarded 39 recipients the prestigious National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medals at the White House. Among the honorees were hip-hop icons Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah, marking a significant milestone as both artists became the first rappers to receive the National Medal of Arts, the highest honor the U.S. government bestows upon artists for their contributions to the arts and culture.
Missy Elliott expressed her overwhelming gratitude on social media, sharing that she was “HUMBLY GRATEFUL” and reflecting on the challenges she faced throughout her career. In a heartfelt message, she also gave a special shoutout to Queen Latifah, recognizing her for paving the way for female artists like herself. “Thank you for kicking down doors QUEEN for me & those after you,” Elliott wrote.
Queen Latifah, who has made strides as both a rapper and an actress, received similar praise for her trailblazing efforts. Both women have not only pushed the boundaries in hip-hop but have also used their platforms to advocate for gender equality and representation in the entertainment industry.
Other notable recipients included film directors Steven Spielberg and Spike Lee, musician Flaco Jiménez, and posthumous honors for singer Selena Quintanilla and chef Anthony Bourdain. During the ceremony, President Biden acknowledged the significance of the event in a time when the arts are being challenged by censorship and misinformation. He celebrated the power of these artists, particularly highlighting the contributions of the female honorees, as evidence that “a woman can do anything a man can do, and then some”.
This event was a reminder of the enduring influence of these legendary figures and the role they continue to play in shaping the arts in America.
