On Saturday, January 4, US President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals, recognizing their significant contributions across various fields, including entertainment, sports, activism, and diplomacy, as announced by the White House.
Among the honorees was Hillary Clinton, noted for her historic roles as first lady, senator, and secretary of state, who has made numerous impactful contributions throughout her public service career.
Other notable recipients included actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, U2's Bono, soccer star Lionel Messi, and philanthropist George Soros, with posthumous awards given to figures such as former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer.
Additionally, Biden recognized conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, basketball legend Magic Johnson, chef José Andrés, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, Vogue's Anna Wintour, science educator Bill Nye, LGBTQ activist Tim Gill, philanthropist David Rubenstein, and American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr.
Many of the awardees have been longstanding supporters of Biden and the Democratic Party.
In his remarks before the ceremony, Biden emphasized the collective impact of the honorees, stating, "Together, you leave an incredible mark on our country."
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy, honors individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the United States and society at large.