The Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award was created in 1964 by the Davenport Catholic Interracial Council.

The award is presented by the Davenport Diocese in collaboration with other organization(s) to honor a person for their achievements in peace and justice, not only in their country but in the world.

The first Pacem in Terris award was given to John F. Kennedy in 1964. Since then it has included such notables as the activist Dorothy Day and religious figures such as Blessed Mother Teresa.