Biden Honors Recipients with Presidential Medals of Freedom at White House Ceremony

January 4, 2025 TruthUSA

Notable honorees include musician Bono, actor Michael J. Fox, basketball legend Magic Johnson, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and financier George Soros.

On January 4, President Joe Biden honored 19 distinguished individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom during a ceremony held at the White House. The list features acclaimed actors, musicians, athletes, scientists, entrepreneurs, and political figures.

“As president, I am privileged to present the Medal of Freedom—our nation’s highest civilian award—one last time to such an exceptional group of individuals,” Biden remarked during the ceremony, recognizing their “sacred effort to influence the culture and the mission of America.”

Earlier in the day, the White House unveiled the list of awardees, referring to them as “great leaders who have improved both America and the world” and highlighting their exemplary contributions to significant societal, public, or private initiatives.

Among the honorees were three former political leaders from various ideological backgrounds: former Democratic Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, former Republican Michigan Governor George Romney, and former Democratic Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Additional recipients include U2’s Bono, actor Michael J. Fox, conservationist Jane Goodall, NBA icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, soccer superstar Lionel Messi, scientist and television personality Bill Nye, actor Denzel Washington, and investor George Soros.

Biden commended the recipients for leveraging their diverse talents to serve the nation and aid those in need. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you: thank you, thank you, thank you for your contributions to this country,” the president stated.

Kennedy received acknowledgment for his significant role in fighting racial segregation during the civil rights movement and his work as a senator to tackle poverty and inequality. Romney, the father of former Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah), previously served as the chairman and president of American Motors Corporation and the 3rd Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Clinton was honored for her extensive public service career, which included becoming the first first lady elected to the Senate and the first woman nominated for president by a major political party.

Soros, often criticized by Republicans for his financial support of Democratic candidates and progressive movements, was recognized for his extensive efforts in endorsing organizations and initiatives that advocate for democracy, human rights, education, and social justice worldwide, according to the White House.

Goodall, a prominent ethologist and conservationist, was recognized for her pioneering research on primates. Bono was honored for his longstanding activism in combating poverty and disease through his music and global advocacy efforts.

Fox was celebrated for his advocacy in Parkinson’s disease research, emerging as a leading figure in promoting medical developments. Johnson was recognized for his philanthropic work, particularly aiding underserved communities via his Magic Johnson Foundation.

Lauren was acknowledged for his impact on American fashion and his charitable efforts supporting cancer research and other noble causes. Messi was honored for his charitable endeavors aimed at enhancing children’s education and healthcare.

Nye was commended for popularizing science and raising environmental awareness. Washington was recognized for his inspiring performances and contributions to education and the arts through charitable actions.

The group of honorees also included renowned chef José Andrés, former Secretary of Defense Ashton Baldwin Carter, entrepreneur Tim Gill, civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer, philanthropist David M. Rubenstein, writer and playwright George Stevens, Jr., and Vogue magazine editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.

Jacob Burg contributed to this report.

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