Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah receive National Medals of Arts award from President Biden

22 October 2024, 12:37 | Written by Tyler Damara Kelly

(News)

(Missy Elliott)

Yesterday (21 October), President Joe Biden handed out National Medals of Arts and Humanities to recipients who recognised as part of the class of 2022 and 2023.

Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah were awarded one of the highest accolades for artists, granted by the US government. Selena Quintanilla was also posthumously recognised for her contributions to the arts, alongside Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez, Herb Ohta Jr., Idina Menzel, and directors including Spike Lee, Steven Spielberg, and Aaron Sorkin.

I am HUMBLY GRATEFUL! Crying Tears of JOY! Thinking of the days I wasn’t so strong but through FAITH & PRAYER I kept going..I’m SO THANKFUL @POTUS 🙏🏾& CONGRATULATIONS to the other amazing ppl who was blessed with this honor🙌🏾☺️ https://t.co/F86ksfZZsM
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) October 22, 2024

The White House says that the National Medals of Arts is “the highest award given to artists, arts patrons, and groups by the United States Government and honours exemplary individuals and organisations that have advanced the arts in America and offered inspiration to others through their distinguished achievement, support, or patronage".

Missy Elliott also thanked Queen Latifah for paving the way for artists such as herself: "And a BiG CONGRATS to my sis [Queen Latifah] who deserve all the bouquets she also was honored today! Thank you for kicking down doors QUEEN for me & those after you."

For more information on the award, visit arts.gov.