The president of the United States, Joe Bidengranted the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 personalities from different fields in a ceremony held this Saturday, January 4, as reported CNN.
This event, loaded with symbolism, marked the last time Biden will present this prestigious recognition during his term. Among the winners are the former Secretary of State Hillary Clintonthe singer and activist Bonothe designer Ralph Lauren and the philanthropist George Soros.
Biden stressed the importance of the honorees, describing them as people who have contributed significantly to American culture and values.
“For the last time as president, I have the honor of awarding the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian award, to a group of truly extraordinary people who have dedicated their sacred efforts to shaping the culture and cause of America.” , said the president during his speech.
The White House explained that the award is given to individuals who have made “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace or other significant efforts in society.”
Among those honored are two American political figures recognized posthumously: former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and former governor of Michigan George Romneyfather of the senator Mitt Romney, Kerry Kennedydaughter of Robert F. Kennedy, accepted the award on her father’s behalf, while Mitt Romney received the award in memory of George Romney.
During the ceremony, Biden recalled his admiration for Robert F. Kennedy, whom he called one of his “two political heroes,” along with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The president also highlighted the presence of a bust of Kennedy in his oval office as a symbol of respect for his legacy.
The recognition of Hillary Clinton was one of the highlights. Accompanied by the former president Bill ClintonHillary received a standing ovation from attendees. Biden’s relationship with the Clintons was reflected in this tribute, consolidating a history of mutual respect.
Last year, the Clintons gave Biden the Clinton Global Citizen Award in a ceremony in New Yorkwhere the president thanked him for his support with emotional words.
The designer Ralph Lauren He was another of the figures honored for his impact on the fashion industry. The first lady Jill Biden has worn their designs on various occasions, including a report for Vogue in August. Additionally, Biden’s granddaughter, Naomi Bidenwore a Lauren dress during her White House wedding in 2022.
The Spanish chef and activist Jose Andres He was also recognized for his humanitarian work through World Central Kitchenan organization that has provided food assistance to communities affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. According to CNNthe White House highlighted his contribution to the global fight against hunger.
In the entertainment field, the actor Denzel Washingtonformer NBA player Magic Johnson and the actor and activist Michael J. Fox they received the medal.
Washington, who had been selected in 2022, but was unable to attend due to a diagnosis of COVID-19was honored this year. A moment of humor occurred when Magic Johnson had to bend down to receive the medal, causing laughter in the room.
The leader of U2Bono, was awarded for his activism in the fight against HOW and his participation in the PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief)which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024.
Bono had already been recognized in the Kennedy Center Honors in 2022, cementing his role as an influential figure in global activism.
The Argentine footballer Lionel Messi He was also awarded, although he did not attend the ceremony due to scheduling commitments, according to the White House. Despite his absence, Messi’s recognition reflects his status as a figure of global relevance.
The scientific communicator Bill Nye and the conservationist Jane Goodall They were recognized for their contributions in science and the environment. Nye has collaborated with the Biden administration on climate change programs, while Goodall has dedicated decades to primate research and protection.
The ceremony also honored the civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamerformer Secretary of Defense Ash Carterthe defender of LGBT rights Tim Gillthe businessman David Rubenstein and the founder of American Film Institute, George Stevens Jr.
Biden closed the event by reiterating the importance of these leaders and their impact on society. “President Biden believes that great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair chance, and put decency above all else,” the White House said in a later statement.
This awarding of the Presidential Medal of Freedom represents, according to the president, a testimony of commitment to the values that strengthen the United States.
