On Wednesday, Nobel Peace Prize Winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus was presented with the Congressional Gold Medal, the most prestigious award distributed by the United States Congress. Dr. Yunus was awarded the honor for his contributions to the fight against global poverty, which have had a particularly strong impact on improving he economic prospects of women and their families.

Yunus.

As Muslim Americans continue to find their place in society and history, Dr. Yunus is an inspiring role model. The Muslim Public Affairs Council said it was grateful to all members of Congress both in the House and Senate who worked to make the recognition possible. 

“We especially appreciate the persistence and hard work of Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) and his staff who worked tirelessly to ensure that Dr. Yunus received this honor and recognition.”

In his remarks Senator Durbin proudly declared that Dr. Yunus was the first Muslim who had received the honor. The nominee of the Congressional Gold Medal must be co-sponsored by at least two thirds of the members of the House of Representatives and Senate. He has now become only the seventh person in history to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.