Bilbao, Spain — October 20, 2025.
U.S. Congressman John Garamendi was honored today with the “Premio Palabra – Influencia during the second edition of the Hitz Sariak – Premios Palabra ceremony, held at the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
The Premios Palabra, created by Grupo Noticias in collaboration with the Basque Government, Iberdrola, and Kutxabank, celebrate the enduring value of one’s word as a symbol of commitment, integrity, and honor — values deeply rooted in Basque culture and universally shared.
This year’s gala recognized five distinguished personalities whose life trajectories embody entrepreneurship, effort, universality, roots, and influence. Congressman Garamendi, recipient of the Influence Award, was acknowledged for his decades of public service and leadership, marked by an unwavering commitment to dialogue, bipartisanship, and international cooperation.
The award’s central symbolism — a handshake cast in sculptural form — reflects the spirit of trust and integrity that Hitz Sariak seeks to uphold. “The power of the word transcends borders and generations,” organizers noted, emphasizing that credibility and commitment are the foundations of democratic societies and human progress.
Congressman Garamendi’s recognition highlights his influential role in U.S. and global public affairs, as well as his long-standing ties to the Basque and Hispanic communities. His leadership in Congress, advocacy for transatlantic collaboration, and dedication to public service make him a worthy embodiment of the values celebrated by the Premios Palabra.
Other honorees included soprano María Bayo (Universality), mountaineer Edurne Pasaban (Effort), musician and composer Kepa Junkera (Roots), and entrepreneur Ane Fernández de Arbina (Entrepreneurship). Together, their contributions form a tapestry of human excellence that enriches and inspires society.
About Congressman John Garamendi
John Garamendi is a distinguished American public servant with a career spanning more than five decades in state, national, and international leadership. Born in Walnut Grove, California, he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and earned an MBA from Harvard Business School before entering public service.
A lifelong advocate for social justice, education, and responsible governance, Garamendi began his political career in the California State Legislature, later serving as California’s Insurance Commissioner and Lieutenant Governor. In 2009, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he has served continuously as one of Congress’s leading voices on defense, foreign affairs, infrastructure, and environmental policy.
Garamendi is a Democrat, member of the House Armed Services Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Garamendi has been a strong proponent of American innovation, sustainable development, and global cooperation. His work reflects a deep belief in diplomacy, civic responsibility, and the enduring power of dialogue — the very principles celebrated by the Premio Palabra.
Of Basque heritage through his family roots, Garamendi has maintained close ties with Spain and the Basque Country, promoting cultural and economic exchanges that strengthen transatlantic understanding. His leadership embodies the values of honor, service, and integrity, earning him recognition as a statesman whose “word” continues to inspire confidence and respect across borders.