On a chilly Saturday afternoon, President Biden celebrated 19 remarkable individuals by presenting them with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, including well-known figures like Hillary Clinton and George Soros.
The event took place in the East Room of the White House, where Biden honored a diverse group from politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights advocacy, LGBTQ rights, and science.
Hillary Clinton received a warm standing ovation as she accepted her medal, joined by her husband Bill Clinton, their daughter Chelsea, and grandchildren.
Among the other honorees were Democratic philanthropist George Soros and actor-director Denzel Washington. In his opening remarks, Biden reflected on this being his final opportunity to award the Medal of Freedom during his presidency.
He expressed gratitude for those who have made significant contributions to shaping American culture: Thank you for all you’ve done to help this country, he said.
Four medals were awarded posthumously to notable figures: George W. Romney (former Michigan governor and HUD secretary), Robert F. Kennedy (former Attorney General and Senator), Ash Carter (former Secretary of Defense), and Fannie Lou Hamer (founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party).
Biden shared a personal connection to Kennedy’s legacy, noting that he considers him one of his political heroes.
Romney’s son is Mitt Romney, known for being one of Trump’s prominent conservative critics. As President Biden approaches the end of his term, he’s been busy recognizing brave military veterans and outstanding Americans with awards like these.
The White House announced that the latest Medal of Freedom recipients have made outstanding contributions to the United States’ prosperity, values, and security, as well as to global peace and various important public and private initiatives.
Among the notable philanthropists honored are Spanish American chef José Andrés, whose organization World Central Kitchen has gained international recognition for its food relief efforts, and Bono, the lead singer of U2 and a prominent advocate for social justice. Alex Soros accepted the medal for his father, George Soros.
In a heartfelt email statement, Soros expressed how touched he was by this recognition as an immigrant who found freedom and success in America.
The list also includes sports and entertainment icons like soccer superstar Lionel Messi—who couldn’t make it to the ceremony—basketball legend Magic Johnson from the Los Angeles Lakers, actor Michael J. Fox known for his advocacy in Parkinson’s disease research, and Bill Nye the Science Guy, beloved by many generations of students.
Other distinguished awardees are conservationist Jane Goodall; Anna Wintour, who has been at the helm of Vogue Magazine for years; Ralph Lauren—the first fashion designer ever to receive this honor; George Stevens Jr., founder of the American Film Institute; LGBTQ activist Tim Gill; and David Rubenstein from The Carlyle Group investment firm.
Last year alone, President Biden awarded this prestigious medal to 19 individuals including civil rights leader Medgar Evers (posthumously), former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, and actress Michelle Yeoh.
Since its inception in 1963 up until 2024, there have been 654 awards given out according to Congressional Research Service data. Some past recipients include legendary figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, and Mother Teresa.