President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, to 19 prominent individuals on Saturday, marking the final such ceremony of his term. The recipients, hailing from diverse fields including activism, entertainment, sports, and business, were recognized for their exceptional contributions to American society and global affairs.
Michael J. Fox, the actor and activist, was among those honored. President Biden praised the recipients for upholding American values, highlighting their impact on the country and the world. The ceremony took place in the East Room of the White House.
The esteemed group included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, musician Bono, chef Jose Andrés, and former defense secretary Ashton Carter. NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, also honored, drew laughter from the crowd as President Biden placed the medal around his neck.
The award recipients represent a spectrum of achievement, encompassing cultural icons like actor Denzel Washington and Vogue editor Anna Wintour. The list also included designer Ralph Lauren, soccer star Lionel Messi, LGBTQ+ activist Tim Gill, conservationist Jane Goodall, and philanthropist George Soros. Further, the event posthumously honored voting rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer and late Michigan governor George Romney, as well as former New York Senator and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy Sr.
President Biden expressed his personal admiration for the late Robert F. Kennedy, calling him a political hero. The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established under President John F. Kennedy, is presented to individuals demonstrating exceptional contributions to US prosperity, values, security, global peace, or various societal endeavors.
This year's recipients join a long list of previous honorees, including notable figures recognized in 2022, such as gymnast Simone Biles and former Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. The selections are made at the discretion of the president, often informed by an advisory panel.
