Search icon

Music

14th Jun 2017

Ariana Grande to receive honorary citizenship of Manchester

Paul Moore

She’s a Manc, through and through.

Much like the families and friends of those 22 people that tragically lost their lives following the attack at the Manchester Arena, Ariana Grande has conducted herself with remarkable grace and strength in the aftermath of the horrific event.

Her recent appearance at One Love Manchester was universally adored, but the 23-year-old has continued to help those that suffered on that fatal night of May 22nd.

The singer has released her wonderful version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow as a standalone single with all proceeds going to victims of the Manchester tragedy.

As of now, The One Love concert and other fundraising streams have raised £3m for victims of the Manchester Arena attack.

The people of Manchester have already called for her to be given the Freedom of Manchester following the One Love concert, and it appears that it’s going to happen.

Under plans that will be forward by the city council, Grande is to become an honorary citizen of Manchester.

In doing so, she’ll become the first recipient to be granted this honour from outside Greater Manchester.

Council leader Sir Richard Leese said that many people already consider Grande to be “an honorary Mancunian”.

He added: “This seems a fitting moment to update the way we recognise those who make noteworthy contributions to the life and success of our city. 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.”

We’re fully behind this decision.