Biden’s Medal of Freedom honours athletes, activists, and pioneers in public service Messi, Soros, Wintour among awardees

President Joe Biden is set to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals in a White House ceremony on January 4.

Among the honorees are former Secretary of State and US Senator Hillary Clinton, who is recognized for her decades of political service and advocacy for women’s rights, and basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, whose impact on the sport and community outreach has been immense, Caliber.Az reports via Bloomberg.

Fashion mogul Ralph Lauren, known for his trailblazing career in the fashion industry, will also receive the medal, alongside Argentinian soccer icon Lionel Messi, celebrated for his record-breaking career and influence on global sports.

Philanthropist George Soros, who has supported liberal causes around the world, and Anna Wintour, the long-time editor of Vogue whose influence in fashion and media is unparalleled, will also be honoured. Acclaimed actor Denzel Washington, known for his exceptional work in film and commitment to social justice, is among the recipients, reflecting the breadth of the medal’s recognition.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honour in the United States, awarded to individuals whose actions have made lasting contributions to national prosperity, security, peace, and societal well-being. The 2023 honorees exemplify this standard, with figures from various sectors of society coming together to showcase the diversity of the award’s significance.

Other notable recipients include Spanish-born chef José Andrés, whose organization World Central Kitchen has transformed disaster relief efforts by providing food to communities impacted by conflict and natural disasters. Actor Michael J. Fox, honoured for his advocacy in Parkinson’s disease research, and Bill Nye, the "Science Guy" known for his efforts in science education, will be recognized for their efforts in advancing public understanding of critical issues. Musician Bono, who has been a powerful advocate for AIDS awareness and human rights, also joins the list of awardees.

Tim Gill, a tech entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ rights activist, is being honoured for his role in securing major victories for marriage equality and anti-discrimination laws. Filmmaker George Stevens Jr. will receive the medal for his decades of work advocating for racial equity and justice in the American film industry, while primatologist and environmentalist Jane Goodall is celebrated for her groundbreaking work in chimpanzee research and environmental conservation.

In recent weeks, President Biden has also honoured key individuals involved in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol attack, presenting the Presidential Citizens Medal to Representatives Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson for their leadership in investigating the event. On January 3, Biden awarded the Medal of Honor to seven former US Army soldiers and the Medal of Valor to eight public safety officers for their acts of bravery.

By Tamilla Hasanova