President Joe Biden is set to honor 19 Americans with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor. The diverse list of recipients includes political allies, celebrities, civil rights leaders, and even a former political rival-turned-financial backer.
Among the notable honorees are former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who made history as the first woman to serve as speaker of the House of Representatives. Pelosi played a crucial role in advancing much of President Biden's key legislation during his administration. South Carolina Rep. Jim Clyburn, another recipient, is credited with rallying his state's Black vote to support Biden in the 2020 primaries, propelling him towards winning the Democratic nomination and eventually the presidency.
Other recipients include former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, actress Michelle Yeoh, former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, former Vice President Al Gore, and former Secretary of State John Kerry. The list also features posthumous recipients such as civil rights activist Medgar Evers, former Senator Frank Lautenberg, and legendary athlete Jim Thorpe.
The honorees also include individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, such as Delaware astronomer Jane Rigby, astronaut Ellen Ochoa, swimmer Katie Ledecky, journalist Phil Donahue, Jesuit Catholic priest Greg Boyle, and president of the United Farm Workers Teresa Romero.
The White House stated that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors. President Biden himself is a recipient of the medal, having been honored by former President Barack Obama.
In a statement, the White House praised the recipients for their leadership and impact on American society, highlighting their roles in building teams, coalitions, movements, organizations, and businesses that have shaped the nation for the better.
This upcoming ceremony follows a previous awarding of the medal in 2022, where 17 individuals, including gymnast Simone Biles, the late Sen. John McCain, and gun-control advocate Gabby Giffords, were honored for their contributions to various fields.
