Presidential Medal of Honor for Dame Elizabeth Taylor

Dear Mr. President,

We the undersigned believe that there is no greater candidate for the Presidential Medal of Freedom than Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who embodies the qualities of what the award stands for.

While Dame Elizabeth Taylor has been championing many causes her entire life, it is her steadfast commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS for nearly a quarter of a century that truly stands out. In the mid 1980s the entire world was turning their backs on HIV/AIDS due to the incorrect stigma surrounding the disease. Governments all around the world were failing their people, leading to senseless deaths. Dame Elizabeth Taylor realized that she could use her unparalleled clout that she had achieved as a two time Oscar winning actress to provide a voice for the countless many battling HIV/AIDS who were being ignored. She would be the first celebrity to do so and there were many who thought that her career would suffer for it. The fight against HIV/AIDS would prove to be an uphill battle but Dame Elizabeth persevered (even ignoring threats on her life) and with her hard work and determination became the face and voice of the cause. Dame Elizabeth, along with many scientists (including past Presidential Medal of Freedom winner Mathilde Krim) founded amfAR in 1985. Dame Elizabeth also established The Elizabeth Taylor HIV/AIDS Foundation in 1991 which focuses its attention on patient care. Dame Elizabeth has helped these two foundations to raise over $270 million dollars. She truly used her fame unselfishly to give back to the global community, saving countless lives.

Dame Elizabeth Taylor's pioneering role in the fight against HIV/AIDS makes her deserving of this prestigious honor. We the undersigned thank you for your time and consideration.