Ariana Grande Is Now Officially An Honorary Citizen Of Manchester

Ariana Grande performs at the One Love concert in Manchester

by Katie Rosseinsky |
Published on

As of today, Ariana Grande is officially an honorary citizen of Manchester, after organising the One Love benefit concert to raise money for those affected by the terrorist attack at her concert in May.

Councillors at the city council meeting reportedly voted unanimously to pass the motion, making Grande the first ever honorary Mancunian.

Sir Richard Leese, the Manchester City Council leader, recognised her determination to return to Manchester.

'She brought comfort to thousands, she raised millions for the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund and became the first patron of that fund, he said. 'And that's why I propose that Ariana Grande is made the first honorary citizen of the city of Manchester.'

On 14 June we wrote

Ariana Grande will become an honourary citizen of Manchester, under new plans put forward by the local council to recognise outstanding contributions to the city.

The singer would be the first recipient of the honour for organising the One Love tribute concert. Held on June 4th, the charity gig saw major stars such as Katy Perry, Justin Bieber, Robbie Williams, Little Mix, Ariana herself and many more perform to raise money for the victims of the terrorist attack at her 22nd May concert.

The event was attended by around 50,000 people, and watched by many more around the world, eventually raising around £3 million for victims of the attack.

Ariana Grande performs at the One Love concert in Manchester
Ariana Grande performs at the One Love concert in Manchester ©Getty Images

Prior to the concert, Ariana visited injured fans recovering at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospiral.

Council leader Sir Richard Leese said that many already see the singer as 'an honourary Mancunian.'

'This seems a fitting moment to update the way we recognise those who make noteworthy contributions to the life and success of our city,' he said.

'We've all had cause to be incredibly proud of Manchester and the resilient and compassionate way in which the city, and all those associated with it, have responded to the terrible events of 22 May - with love and courage rather than hatred and fear,' he added, stating that Ariana had 'exemplified this response.'

The council also announced plans for an event to recognise the 'great many selfless acts and demonstrations of community spirit in the aftermath of the atrocity.'

READ MORE: Celebrities Pay Tribute To Victims Of Manchester Attack

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