Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, and actor-director Denzel Washington are among the 19 individuals who will be honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in a ceremony at the White House on Saturday. President Joe Biden will recognize these esteemed individuals for their exceptional contributions to various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and science.
The recipients of this prestigious award have been selected based on their exemplary efforts towards advancing the prosperity, values, and security of the United States, promoting world peace, and making significant contributions to societal, public, or private endeavors.
Notably, four medals will be awarded posthumously to individuals who have left a lasting impact on American history. These recipients include Fannie Lou Hamer, Robert F. Kennedy, George W. Romney, and Ash Carter, all of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping the nation's political landscape and advocating for social justice.
Among the distinguished philanthropists being honored are Spanish American chef José Andrés, renowned for his humanitarian work through the World Central Kitchen charity, and Bono, the iconic frontman of U2 and a prominent advocate for social causes.
The list of awardees also features prominent figures from the worlds of sports and entertainment, such as soccer star Lionel Messi, basketball legend Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, actor Michael J. Fox, and science educator Bill Nye, who have each made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Additionally, the award recipients include individuals like conservationist Jane Goodall, fashion icon Anna Wintour, designer Ralph Lauren, and LGBTQ+ activist Tim Gill, who have all made notable contributions to society through their work and advocacy efforts.
President Biden's decision to honor these individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom underscores their remarkable achievements and dedication to making a positive impact on the world. This year's recipients join a prestigious group of individuals who have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to American society.