Acclaimed Australian actress and humanitarian campaigner Cate Blanchett has been formally presented with one of London's oldest and most prestigious civic awards, the Freedom of the City of London.
A Ceremony of Celebration and Advocacy
The Oscar-winner accepted the honour during a ceremony held at the historic Guildhall on Friday 28 November 2025. In a powerful move that underscored the day's deeper significance, Blanchett was joined by guests from refugee backgrounds, including Hala Khankan and Maya Ghazal from Syria, Duot Ajang from South Sudan, Abdullah Sakhnini from Pakistan, Sofia Berdychevska from Ukraine, and Anil Qasemi from Afghanistan.
The event recognised not only her illustrious, award-winning career on the stage and screen but also her profound commitment to humanitarian and environmental causes. Blanchett has served as a global goodwill ambassador for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, for many years, tirelessly advocating for those displaced by conflict and persecution.
Dedication to Those Fleeing Persecution
In her acceptance speech, Blanchett expressed her deep gratitude for the honour. She stated that she 'treasured this gift from a city and country with a history of offering welcome and opportunity', specifically highlighting London's enduring legacy of providing sanctuary.
By dedicating the award to refugees, she powerfully connected the ceremonial occasion to the ongoing global plight of displacement. Her nomination for the Freedom was put forward by Sir William Russell, the former Lord Mayor of London, and Emily Benn, chairwoman of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Both praised her extraordinary talent as an artist and her unwavering dedication to advocacy.
A Lasting Legacy and Recognition
The granting of the Freedom of the City of London to Cate Blanchett solidifies her status as a figure of significant cultural and social influence. It bridges the worlds of high-profile entertainment and serious, global humanitarian effort.
The ceremony at Guildhall was not just a recognition of past achievements but a very public affirmation of the values Blanchett champions. It served to amplify the message of welcome and the critical importance of supporting those fleeing persecution, ensuring their stories remain at the forefront of public consciousness.
