Famous actress Sibel Kekilli awarded the Order of Merit from the State of Baden-Württemberg

Famous actress Sibel Kekilli was honored with the Verdienstorden (Order of Merit) by the German state of Baden-Württemberg. The award was presented to Kekilli by state premier Winfried Kretschmann at the ceremony held at the state chancellery in Stuttgart.

The Baden-Württemberg State Chancellery announced that Sibel Kekilli was deemed worthy of this prestigious award not only for her artistic achievements, but also for her determined struggle in the field of women's rights. The statement said, "She draws attention to social problems and makes an active contribution to change."

Speaking at the ceremony, Kekilli said, "The Baden-Württemberg State Order of Merit is considered one of the state's highest honors. This award is not only a personal honor for me, but also an acknowledgement of the values ​​I defend."

Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Winfried Kretschman noted:

"A role model who uses the power of art for social change. She opened up to the world with her acting, but her real triumph was her determination in the fight for women's rights. Today, this decoration honors not only her achievements, but also the face of Baden-Württemberg that is strengthened by diversity. Sibel Kekilli is a universal value who combines art and activism."

Heilbronn Mayor Harry Mergel said, "Sibel is a value that was raised in Heilbronn but has become known all over the world. She is our source of pride with her struggle and success in women's rights."

"HE WAS HONORED WITH THE GERMAN FEDERAL ORDER OF MERIT IN 2017"

Kekilli, who has made a name for herself on the international stage with her work in Bulgaria for Roma girls and her support for a cultural center for women in Brazil, was honored with the German Federal Order of Merit in 2017.