On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden honored 19 individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award, during a ceremony at the White House. This accolade recognizes those who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors.
Among the distinguished recipients were:
Hillary Clinton: Former Secretary of State, U.S. Senator, and First Lady, recognized for her decades-long public service and advocacy for women's rights and social justice.
George Soros: Philanthropist and financier, honored for his extensive contributions to democracy, human rights, and open societies through his Open Society Foundations.
Bono: Lead vocalist of U2 and activist, acknowledged for his efforts in combating global poverty and AIDS, and his commitment to humanitarian causes.
Anna Wintour: Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, celebrated for her influential role in the fashion industry and her philanthropic endeavors in support of the arts.
Lionel Messi: Renowned Argentine footballer, recognized for his outstanding contributions to sports and his charitable work through the Leo Messi Foundation.
Denzel Washington: Acclaimed actor and director, honored for his contributions to the arts and his philanthropic efforts in education and the performing arts.
Michael J. Fox: Actor and advocate, acknowledged for his work in raising awareness and funding for Parkinson's disease research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Jane Goodall: Primatologist and conservationist, celebrated for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees and her lifelong commitment to environmental conservation.
Magic Johnson: Former professional basketball player and entrepreneur, recognized for his achievements in sports and his efforts in HIV/AIDS awareness and urban development.
Bill Nye: Science educator and television presenter, honored for his dedication to science communication and education, inspiring countless individuals to engage with science.
José Andrés: Chef and humanitarian, acknowledged for his culinary contributions and his leadership in disaster relief efforts through World Central Kitchen.
Ralph Lauren: Fashion designer and philanthropist, celebrated for his impact on American fashion and his support for cancer research and care.
Tim Gill: Entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ rights activist, recognized for his philanthropic efforts in advancing equality and civil rights through the Gill Foundation.
David Rubenstein: Co-founder of The Carlyle Group and philanthropist, honored for his contributions to preserving American history and culture.
George Stevens Jr.: Founder of the American Film Institute, acknowledged for his influence on the film industry and his commitment to preserving cinematic heritage.
Posthumous honors were bestowed upon:
Fannie Lou Hamer: Civil rights activist, recognized for her tireless efforts in fighting for voting rights and racial equality.
Robert F. Kennedy: Former Attorney General and U.S. Senator, honored for his dedication to social justice and human rights.
George W. Romney: Former Governor of Michigan and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, acknowledged for his public service and advocacy for civil rights.
Ashton Carter: Former Secretary of Defense, recognized for his leadership in national security and defense innovation.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, continues to honor those who have made significant impacts on the United States and the world, inspiring future generations to contribute positively to society.