Special Poll
President Biden Honors 19 with Presidential Medal of Freedom
President Joe Biden celebrated 19 remarkable individuals on Saturday by awarding them the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The recipients represent a diverse group of influential figures in politics, entertainment, activism, sports, and philanthropy, all recognized for their significant contributions to society.
Honorees included chef and humanitarian José Andrés, renowned musician and activist Bono, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor and Parkinson’s advocate Michael J. Fox, and LGBTQ advocate and entrepreneur Tim Gill.
Others receiving the prestigious award were conservationist Jane Goodall, basketball legend Magic Johnson, iconic fashion designer Ralph Lauren, soccer superstar Lionel Messi, science educator Bill Nye, philanthropist David Rubenstein, and Democratic donor and philanthropist George Soros. Additional honorees included American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr., celebrated actor Denzel Washington, and long-time Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Four individuals were honored posthumously: Robert F. Kennedy, who served as attorney general; Ashton Carter, former Defense secretary; George Romney, former Michigan governor; and civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, who founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party.
“These nineteen Americans are exceptional leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House said in a statement.
President Biden presented the awards during a heartfelt ceremony at the White House. This week of recognition also included awarding the Presidential Citizens Medal, the Medal of Honor, and the Medal of Valor to other deserving individuals for their civilian and military service as his presidency progresses.
The honorees reflect a legacy of service, creativity, and leadership that continues to inspire people of all ages, reminding us of the power of individual contributions to shape a better world.