Two Latino American pioneers in the worlds of literature and politics, former Rep. Edward Roybal of California and bestselling author Isabel Allende, will receive the Presidential Medal of Honor, the highest award given to civilians, on Nov. 28.

Lucille Roybal-Allard, the first Mexican-American woman elected to Congress, will be accepting the award on behalf of her father.

Roybal will join 18 other Americans who will receive the award.

Lucille said her late father "blazed a trail for generations of Latino politicians and activists," according to the Sacramento Bee.

Ruben Hinojosa, who is the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman, described Roybal as one of the "most beloved Mexican-American heroes."

"He was a relentless civil rights advocate whose work continues to make a difference in the lives of many Latinos and people of color today," Hinojosa said. "Enough cannot be said about the contributions the late Congressman made -- from his work at the local level in Los Angeles to his time on the House Appropriations Committee where he championed federal funding for the most underserved communities."

Roybal was born in New Mexico, and he graduated from UCLA before going on to Southwestern University, where he earned his law degree. He also served in World War II with the U.S. Army.

In 1962, Roybal became the first Mexican-American elected to the House of Representatives.

Roybal died in 2005.

Other recipients of the medal of honor this year include Meryl Streep, Ethel Kennedy, Stevie Wonder and Tom Brokaw.

"From activists who fought for change to artists who explored the furthest reaches of our imagination; from scientists who kept America on the cutting edge to public servants who help write new chapters in our American story, these citizens have made extraordinary contributions to our country and the world," President Barack Obama said.

Latina author Isabel Allende, who was awarded Chile's National Prize for literature, has written eight novels, had her works translated in 27 languages and has penned bestsellers that span four continents. 

Allende, whose work pays tribute to women and their daily lives and struggles, was born in Peru, but the Chilean-American author moved to the United States in the 1980s.

The author tweeted the following Monday upon receiving the news: "I am honored to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Obama himself will present it!"