President Joe Biden will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, to 19 distinguished individuals on Saturday. This year’s honorees include celebrated entertainers, sports legends, political figures, and advocates for social justice, showcasing a diverse array of contributions to society.
Among the recipients are renowned singer and activist Bono, basketball icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson, soccer superstar Lionel Messi, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and legendary fashion designer Ralph Lauren. The honorees “are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House said in a statement.
The list also features notable figures like longtime Vogue editor Anna Wintour, chef and humanitarian José Andrés, and environmentalist and primate researcher Jane Goodall, highlighting achievements that span industries and causes.
In a nod to political and philanthropic impact, billionaire financier and philanthropist George Soros and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will also be recognized. Soros was honored for his global support of democracy, human rights, and social justice initiatives, while Clinton was celebrated for her decades of public service and for being the first woman nominated by a major party for the U.S. presidency.
Biden will also posthumously honor Robert Francis Kennedy (RFK), who served as U.S. attorney general under his brother, President John F. Kennedy, and was assassinated in 1968 while campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination. “His legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice, equality, and public service,” Biden said.
Biden’s selections reflect his desire to leave a lasting legacy as his presidency comes to a close. In a move widely interpreted as a rebuke to former President Donald Trump, Biden awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal on Thursday to Liz Cheney, the former Republican congresswoman who played a pivotal role on the House panel investigating the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
Trump, reacting to the award, criticized Cheney on Truth Social, calling her “totally corrupt” and alleging that Biden honored her solely for opposing him.
As Biden prepares to leave office, these awards underscore his commitment to celebrating a wide spectrum of achievements, from cultural icons to political trailblazers. “Each honoree exemplifies the best of America, reflecting our nation’s ideals of resilience, compassion, and innovation,” the White House concluded.
