In one of his final acts as president, Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian honor, to 19 individuals from diverse fields, including culture, politics, and activism. The ceremony, held at the White House on Saturday, celebrated the honorees’ exceptional contributions to society.
The recipients included Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono, and billionaire philanthropist George Soros, alongside former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and sports legends Lionel Messi and Earvin “Magic” Johnson.
“Together, you leave an incredible mark on our country,” President Biden said, acknowledging the remarkable achievements of the honorees.
- Bono (Paul David Hewson) was recognized for his global efforts to combat poverty and raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.
- Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief since 1988, was honored for raising over $20 million for AIDS research and supporting arts organizations during funding cuts.
- George Soros was celebrated for his philanthropic work promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice worldwide.
- Michael J. Fox, visibly emotional during the ceremony, received accolades for his tireless advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research.
Hillary Clinton received a standing ovation for her decades of public service, while chef José Andrés was recognized for his humanitarian work through World Central Kitchen, providing meals in war zones and disaster-stricken areas.
Posthumous honors were awarded to civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney.
Other recipients included conservationist Jane Goodall, science communicator Bill Nye, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr., and former Kennedy Center chair David Rubenstein.
The ceremony underscored the diverse contributions of individuals shaping culture, advancing human rights, and improving the lives of others. President Biden’s words reflected the impact of their collective efforts: “You inspire us to be better as a nation.”
