The "Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act" seeks to posthumously honor Muhammad Ali with a Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing his profound contributions to the United States. Born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr., Ali was a celebrated athlete who won an Olympic gold medal and became the first professional boxer to capture the heavyweight title three times. He was also a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War, a stance later upheld by the Supreme Court, and a champion for civil rights. Beyond his athletic prowess, Ali dedicated his life to humanitarian causes and universal human rights, serving as a U.N. Messenger of Peace and undertaking diplomatic missions. He actively supported organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and co-founded the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, raising millions for research. The Muhammad Ali Center, established in his hometown, promotes respect, hope, and understanding, embodying his global impact. The bill authorizes the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange the medal's presentation, with the Secretary of the Treasury responsible for its design and striking. Following presentation, the medal will be given to his wife, Lonnie Ali, and bronze duplicates will be made available for public sale.
The "Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act" seeks to posthumously honor Muhammad Ali with a Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing his profound contributions to the United States. Born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr., Ali was a celebrated athlete who won an Olympic gold medal and became the first professional boxer to capture the heavyweight title three times. He was also a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War, a stance later upheld by the Supreme Court, and a champion for civil rights. Beyond his athletic prowess, Ali dedicated his life to humanitarian causes and universal human rights, serving as a U.N. Messenger of Peace and undertaking diplomatic missions. He actively supported organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and co-founded the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, raising millions for research. The Muhammad Ali Center, established in his hometown, promotes respect, hope, and understanding, embodying his global impact. The bill authorizes the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange the medal's presentation, with the Secretary of the Treasury responsible for its design and striking. Following presentation, the medal will be given to his wife, Lonnie Ali, and bronze duplicates will be made available for public sale.