President Joe Biden awarded the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals, honoring their outstanding contributions to American society and the world. This marked President Biden’s final opportunity to confer this high civilian honor before his term ends. Among the recipients were notable figures such as former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, and acclaimed chef and humanitarian José Andrés.
Biden referred to the recipients as, “a collection of people, with different backgrounds and beliefs and talents, different generations and different agendas, using their remarkable gifts and unwavering passion to strengthen our resolve as one nation under god indivisible, liberty and justice for all,” as NBC News reported.
“These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place,” the statement added. “They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House said in a statement, as NPR reported.
Hillary Clinton, celebrated for her lifelong commitment to public service, was recognized for her influential roles as First Lady, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of State, as well as her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice. Similarly, George Soros, the billionaire financier known for his philanthropic efforts, was honored for his long-standing work supporting democracy, human rights, and global health initiatives through his Open Society Foundations.
Another standout honoree was José Andrés, a chef celebrated for his humanitarian work, particularly through his World Central Kitchen organization. He has been instrumental in providing disaster relief and food aid worldwide. Similarly, Lionel Messi, the world-renowned soccer player, was acknowledged for his extraordinary achievements in the world of sports, while Magic Johnson was honored for his legendary basketball career and his entrepreneurial contributions.
In entertainment, actor and Parkinson’s disease advocate Michael J. Fox received the award for his contributions to entertainment and his dedication to advancing Parkinson’s research. Also recognized were entertainment icons such as Denzel Washington, for his profound impact on film and theater, and Bill Nye, who has helped popularize science through his television programs. Additionally, fashion titan Anna Wintour was honored for her leadership in the fashion industry and her philanthropic work.
President Biden’s final set of Medal of Freedom recipients also included legendary civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, who was honored posthumously for her tireless efforts in the fight for voting rights and racial equality. The late George Romney, a former governor of Michigan and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, was also honored posthumously for his public service.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the public good, whether through their work in government, the arts, sports, or other fields. The ceremony took place at the White House, where President Biden personally presented the medals, acknowledging the recipients’ profound impact on society.
This ceremony reflects the diverse contributions that individuals from all walks of life have made to improve the world, making the Presidential Medal of Freedom a symbol of excellence, service, and dedication to a better future for all.
