In a momentous ceremony at the White House, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to a distinguished group of individuals, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor Michael J. Fox, basketball legend Magic Johnson, and Hollywood icon Denzel Washington.
The event, held on January 4, 2025, was one of Biden’s final official acts before leaving office on January 20, when Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated.
A Celebration of Excellence and Service
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to American society, culture, and global humanitarian efforts. This year’s recipients come from diverse backgrounds, including politics, entertainment, sports, philanthropy, and science.
Among those honored were:
- Bono, the U2 frontman and humanitarian activist
- Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen, known for feeding people in disaster and war zones
- Ralph Lauren, the world-renowned fashion designer
- Bill Nye, the scientist and TV personality popularly known as the Science Guy
- Anna Wintour, the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine
Notable Moments from the Ceremony
One of the most emotional moments of the event came when Michael J. Fox, known for his roles in Back to the Future, Family Ties, and Spin City, received his medal. Fox, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease, entered the room in a wheelchair but stood with assistance when Biden placed the medal around his neck. He received a standing ovation from the crowd, smiling and clapping throughout the ceremony.
Another highlight was Hillary Clinton’s recognition. The former first lady, senator, and secretary of state, who ran for president in 2016, has been a longtime supporter of Biden. She received one of the loudest applauses of the evening, reflecting her enduring influence in American politics.
Posthumous Honors
In addition to the living recipients, Biden awarded the Medal of Freedom posthumously to several historical figures:
- Robert F. Kennedy, the former attorney general and U.S. senator
- Fannie Lou Hamer, a prominent civil rights activist
- Ash Carter, a former Secretary of Defense
- George Romney, a businessman and former governor of Michigan. His son, Senator Mitt Romney, accepted the award on his behalf.
International Recognition
The event also recognized global figures for their outstanding contributions. Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentinian soccer player, was honored but could not attend due to scheduling conflicts. George Soros, the billionaire investor and philanthropist, also received the award in absentia, with his son Alex Soros accepting it on his behalf.
Biden’s Reflection on the Recipients
During the ceremony, Biden described the honorees as “truly extraordinary people” who have helped shape America’s history, culture, and humanitarian efforts. The selections also reflect Biden’s personal passions and political alliances, as many of the recipients have supported his administration’s policies or share his vision for progress and social justice.
As Biden prepares to leave the White House, this final gesture serves as a powerful statement of appreciation for individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference—whether in politics, entertainment, science, or humanitarian work.
