President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to an array of prominent figures on Saturday, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor Denzel Washington, basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and conservationist Jane Goodall.
The ceremony, held in the East Room of the White House, featured recipients celebrated for their diverse contributions to American life. The honorees included actor Michael J. Fox, chef and humanitarian José Andrés, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, “Science Guy” Bill Nye, and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Several posthumous awards were presented, including to civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, former Attorney General and U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, and businessman and Michigan Governor George Romney. Romney’s son, Senator Mitt Romney, accepted the award on his behalf, while Kathleen Kennedy received the medal for her father, Robert Kennedy.
International soccer star Lionel Messi and investor-philanthropist George Soros were also honored, though neither attended the ceremony. Messi cited scheduling conflicts, while Soros’s son, Alex, accepted the award on his father’s behalf.
A celebration of service
“This extraordinary group of individuals has shaped the cause and culture of America,” Biden said in his remarks, highlighting their lasting contributions to the nation. The selection of honorees reflected Biden’s personal passions, long-time allies, and admired figures.
Hillary Clinton, a former first lady, U.S. senator, and secretary of state, received a standing ovation during the ceremony. A pivotal figure in American politics, Clinton was praised for her leadership and commitment to public service, including her historic bid for the presidency in 2016.
Michael J. Fox, celebrated for his work on Family Ties, Spin City, and the Back to the Future films, received recognition not only for his acting but for his advocacy in Parkinson’s disease research. Fox, who lives with the disease, entered the ceremony in a wheelchair but stood with assistance to accept his medal, drawing widespread applause.
José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen, was honored for his humanitarian efforts, which have provided food relief to people in disaster zones around the globe. Andrés grew emotional as he received the medal, remembering the lives lost among his team in Gaza last year.
Denzel Washington, known for his iconic film roles and philanthropy, and Magic Johnson, who revolutionized professional basketball and became a champion for HIV awareness, were also celebrated for their contributions to culture and public health.
A reflection of legacy
Biden’s selections underscored his admiration for individuals who, he said, “brought vision and heart to the work of bettering the world.” The awards come as Biden nears the conclusion of his first term, offering a poignant reflection on the values and figures that have shaped his presidency.
The ceremony, filled with moments of joy, standing ovations, and personal tributes, served as a reminder of the lasting impact of the honorees’ contributions to the nation and the world.
