President Joseph R. Biden recently presented the 2022 and 2023 National Humanities Medals, in conjunction with the National Medals of Arts in a private ceremony at the White House. The distinguished medal recipients include IAIA president Dr. Robert Martin (Cherokee Nation), who is recognized for his contributions to Indigenous higher education. The recipients also comprise writers, historians, educators, and filmmakers. Presentation of the medals was followed by a reception with remarks from President Biden, first lady Dr. Jill Biden, National Endowment for the Arts chair Dr. Maria Rosario Jackson, and National Endowment for the Humanities chair Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo).

“The National Humanities Medal recipients have enriched our world through writing that moves and inspires us; scholarship that enlarges our understanding of the past; and through their dedication to educating, informing, and giving voice to communities and histories often overlooked,” said NEH chair Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo). “I am proud to join President Biden in recognizing these distinguished leaders for their outstanding contributions to our nation’s cultural life.”

The National Humanities Medal honors an individual or organization whose work has deepened the nation’s understanding of the human experience, broadened citizens’ engagement with history or literature, or helped preserve and expand Americans’ access to cultural resources.

Besides Dr. Martin, other recipients of the 2022-2023 National Humanities and National Arts Medals include Joy Harjo (Muscogee), Rosita Worl (Tlingit), Spike Lee, and Steven Spielberg.