Outgoing President Joe Biden has awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honour, to 19 individuals spanning the worlds of culture, politics, and activism. The White House ceremony, held on Saturday, included figures such as Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono, and billionaire philanthropist George Soros.
Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and sports icons Lionel Messi and Earvin “Magic” Johnson were also among the recipients.
President Biden praised the honourees for their remarkable achievements, saying, “Together, you leave an incredible mark—and I mean this sincerely, this group—you leave an incredible mark on our country.”
Bono, whose real name is Paul David Hewson, was recognised for his global campaigns against poverty and his advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness. Wintour, editor-in-chief of *Vogue* since 1988, has raised over $20 million for AIDS research and supported UK arts organisations during funding cuts in 2022.
The White House celebrated George Soros for his work strengthening democracy, human rights, and social justice through his philanthropic initiatives.
Actor Michael J. Fox was visibly emotional as Biden highlighted his advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research. Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, received a standing ovation for her accomplishments in public service.
Other recipients included chef José Andrés, whose World Central Kitchen has provided food in war zones and disaster-stricken areas, conservationist Jane Goodall, and science communicator Bill Nye.
Posthumous honours were given to civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, former Defence Secretary Ash Carter, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney.
Cultural figures also recognised included fashion designer Ralph Lauren, American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr, and former Kennedy Center chair David Rubinstein.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established under President John F. Kennedy and is awarded at the discretion of the sitting president, following advice from an advisory panel. Previous recipients include gymnast Simone Biles, actress Michelle Yeoh, and Apple founder Steve Jobs.
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