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President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to 19 individuals during a White House ceremony on Saturday. The honorees included politicians, philanthropists, cultural icons, and posthumous recipients, all celebrated for their extraordinary contributions to the United States and the world.
Diverse Group of Honorees
In his remarks, Biden described the recipients as a “collection of people, with different backgrounds and beliefs” who used their talents to serve and strengthen the nation.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes individuals who have made “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors,” according to the White House.
Notable Recipients:
- Hillary Clinton: Former Secretary of State and the first woman nominated for president by a major political party.
- George Soros: Philanthropist and founder of Open Society Foundations, which supports human rights and pro-democracy initiatives globally.
- José Andrés: Renowned chef and humanitarian, whose World Central Kitchen aids disaster-stricken communities.
- Jane Goodall: Acclaimed conservationist and scientist, known for her groundbreaking work with primates.
- Bill Nye: Science educator and advocate, famous for the TV show Bill Nye the Science Guy.
- Michael J. Fox: Actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease research.
- Lionel Messi and Magic Johnson: Legendary athletes celebrated for their impact on sports and society.
- Anna Wintour and Ralph Lauren: Icons of fashion whose influence has shaped culture globally.
Posthumous Honors
Four individuals were awarded the medal posthumously:
- Robert F. Kennedy: Former attorney general and senator, remembered for his contributions to civil rights and his presidential aspirations.
- Ashton Carter: Former Secretary of Defense, recognized for his leadership in combating ISIS.
- George Romney: Former Michigan governor and father of Sen. Mitt Romney, known for his advocacy during the civil rights era.
Legacy of the Medal
Biden, a recipient of the medal in 2017 during the Obama administration, has continued the tradition of honoring individuals who reflect the nation’s highest ideals.
The ceremony is a hallmark of Biden’s presidency, as he has used the occasion to celebrate leadership, service, and cultural contributions. Previous recipients under his administration have included Planned Parenthood’s Cecile Richards and leaders involved in investigating the January 6 Capitol riot.
