The Ricardo Jorge Distinction of Merit was first presented to dozens of entities who participated in the fight against the Covid-19 virus within the city of Porto. The award was launched three years after the first vaccine was introduced, in recognition of altruism, solidarity, and courage.
It was introduced as an expression of gratitude for the professional performance and gestures of solidarity that the honorees showed during the pandemic, in favour of the common good. We were invited to design the medal, which we chose to base on the shape of a drop, representing their spirit, effort and energy in the mission of protecting public health and social well-being, contributing to the whole. The only inscription reads “Obrigado Porto. / Thank you Porto”. The award’s small, graspable size and its heavy weight remind us of the actions and values at stake: human gestures proving to be meaningful and impactful contributions.
The Ricardo Jorge Merit Distinction will from now on be awarded annually by the city of Porto to recognize and praise individuals and groups who stand out in their civic contribution and altruism in support of the community.
