Washington, D.C. -- 01/04/25 -- President Joe Biden announced that 19 individuals, including philanthropists, politicians, athletes, entertainers, scientists, and humanitarians, would be awarded the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. Among the honorees is George Soros, the controversial founder of the Open Society Foundations, alongside influential figures who have made extraordinary contributions to society.
In the official announcement, White House officials praised the recipients, emphasizing their leadership qualities. "Great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else," the statement read. "These 19 individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place." The Medal of Freedom recognizes individuals whose efforts have enhanced the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other notable public and private endeavors.
A Diverse Group of Awardees
Soros, a renowned investor and philanthropist, was specifically recognized for his work through the Open Society Foundations. His network of foundations operates in over 120 countries, focusing on strengthening democracy, human rights, education, and social justice on a global scale.
Alongside Soros, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney were also named recipients of the Medal of Freedom. Kennedy and Romney, however, were among four posthumous recipients, with Fannie Lou Hamer, the founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, and former Secretary of Defense Ashton Baldwin Carter also being honored posthumously.
Influential Figures in Science, Culture, and Sports
In the realm of science, renowned ethologist and conservationist Jane Goodall, along with the "Science Guy" and engineer Bill Nye, were honored for their contributions to the betterment of humanity and the environment. Fashion icon Ralph Lauren, Vogue magazine editor Anna Wintour, and entrepreneur Tim Gill were also celebrated for their cultural impact.
The arts saw notable figures such as U2's lead singer Bono, actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, and American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr. (who also created the Kennedy Center Honors). Each of these individuals has had a profound influence on the cultural and artistic landscape, both in the U.S. and globally.
Athletes Who Have Made a Difference
The sporting world was also well represented, with legendary athletes Lionel Messi and Earvin "Magic" Johnson receiving the Medal of Freedom. Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, and Johnson, a Hall of Fame basketball star who founded the Magic Johnson Foundation, were recognized for their on-field achievements and contributions to philanthropy.
A Ceremony of Recognition
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States' highest civilian honor, awarded to those whose contributions have left a lasting impact on society. The recipients were honored during a formal ceremony at the White House on Saturday, marking a moment of recognition for their exceptional and transformative work.
The selection of these 19 individuals underscores the broad range of fields in which the Medal of Freedom can be awarded, reflecting the diverse contributions that shape a better world. From the realms of politics and science to sports, entertainment, and philanthropy, these individuals embody the values that the Medal of Freedom stands to celebrate.
A Brief History
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award of the United States, alongside the Congressional Gold Medal. It is an award bestowed by decision of the president of the United States to "any person recommended to the President for award of the Medal or any person selected by the President upon his own initiative," and was created to recognize people who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, or world peace, or cultural or other significant public or private endeavors."
The award is not limited to U.S. citizens, and, while it is a civilian award, it can also be awarded to military personnel and worn on the uniform. It was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, superseding the Medal of Freedom that was initially established by President Harry S. Truman in 1945 to honor civilian service.
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