Donatella Versace, the iconic fashion designer, was recognized for her unwavering commitment to LGBTQIA+ rights at the 2024 Prophets of Philanthropy Awards. The prestigious award, presented by The Galileo Foundation, acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting equality and human rights.
Versace expressed her gratitude and shared her passion for advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “I am humbled to be made a Prophet of Philanthropy by The Galileo Foundation. It inspires me to continue to give a voice to the LGBTQ+ community globally. I am a proud ally, and our support has never been more important. We must do everything we can to make this world a fairer and more equitable place.”
The award ceremony, held during the second “Faith and Philanthropy” Summit at the historic Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England, brought together influential figures from various fields. The event followed the success of the inaugural summit, which took place in 2022 at the Vatican under the auspices of Pope Francis.
Joining Versace as honorees were actress and activist Sharon Stone, former Irish President Mary Robinson, who served from 1990 to 1997, and the renowned West-Eastern Divan Orchestra and its founder, Maestro Daniel Barenboim.
The Galileo Foundation, established in 2017 by John McCaffrey, plays a crucial role in supporting the work of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences, particularly focusing on combating human trafficking. The organization’s dedication to social justice aligns perfectly with the values celebrated at the Prophets of Philanthropy Awards, recognizing individuals who embody compassion, action, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
