On a chilly Saturday afternoon in the East Room of the White House, President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals from diverse fields like politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and science.
One of the highlights of the ceremony came when former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton received her medal, prompting a standing ovation from the crowd. She was joined by her husband, former President Bill Clinton, their daughter Chelsea, and grandchildren. Other notable honorees included Democratic philanthropist George Soros and actor-director Denzel Washington, both of whom were also awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Four of the medals were awarded posthumously to individuals who made lasting contributions to the country. These included George W. Romney, former governor of Michigan and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Robert F. Kennedy, former Attorney General and Senator; Ash Carter, former Secretary of Defense; and Fannie Lou Hamer, a key figure in the civil rights movement who helped lay the groundwork for the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
The Kennedy family, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was recently named President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Health and Human Services Secretary, and Mitt Romney, the former Republican senator from Utah, are also tied to this legacy.
The White House emphasized that the recipients were recognized for their “exemplary contributions” to the country, whether it be in prosperity, values, security, world peace, or other important societal endeavors.
Among the major philanthropists honored were chef José Andrés, whose World Central Kitchen has become a global leader in food relief, and Bono, the U2 frontman and social justice advocate.
George Soros’ son, Alex Soros, accepted the award on his father’s behalf, with George Soros expressing his gratitude in an emailed statement: “As an immigrant who found freedom and prosperity in America, I am deeply moved by this honor.”
In the world of sports and entertainment, Lionel Messi was recognized (though he did not attend), along with basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, actor Michael J. Fox, and Bill Nye, beloved as “Bill Nye the Science Guy.”
With just days remaining in his presidency, Biden has spent his final moments in office honoring those who’ve shown exceptional courage, dedication, and service—whether in the military, law enforcement, or in making a difference in the lives of everyday Americans.
Since 1963, the Presidential Medal of Freedom has been awarded 654 times, with past recipients including the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, and Mother Teresa.
