Singer MIA honoured with MBE by Prince William
Singer says her mother had once worked hand stitching medals distributed by the palace
British singer MIA has received a prestigious award from Prince William at a Buckingham Palace.
She was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire, or MBE, at the palace ceremony on Tuesday hosted by William as a representative of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.
The 44-year-old performer, who real name is Mathangi Arulpragasam, was honoured for “services to music.” The honours list is published twice a year by Britain’s Cabinet Office to reward people for public service, research, artistic achievement and other accomplishments.
The singer said the honour was particularly meaningful because her mother had once worked hand stitching medals distributed by the palace.
“Today I’m accepting this in honour for my mother who worked for minimum wage to give us a better life. As a working class first generation immigrant it’s great to be recognised for my contribution,” she said.
“Having freedom to speak my truth and to do it through music has helped me speak for those who do not have those privileges. I will continue fight for those who are silenced or persecuted by others.”