Joe Biden's Presidential Medal of Freedom: Discover Its Significance and who will receive it
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honour in the United States.
On Saturday night, President Joe Biden presented the 19 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in a ceremony at the White House. These individuals are recognizing their exceptional contributions to prosperity, values, or security to American society.
This year's recipients represented a diverse array of fields, from politics and civil rights to entertainment and science. Among the honorees were former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Billionaire philanthropist George Soros.
What is it the Presidential Medal of Freedom on the US?
This award is considered the highest civilian honour in the United States. It is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to prosperity, values, or security of the United States.
The 2025 Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony highlighted the diverse and far-reaching impact of the recipients' work, serving as a reminder of the power of dedication and service to shape a better future.
"President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else", a statement from the White House said to USA Today.
"This nineteen Americans are great leaders, who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world"
Who receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom?
Magic Johnson, a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, has become a successful entrepreneur and sports team owner. He's in the ownership groups for MLB's Los Angeles Dodgers, the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, Los Angeles FC in MLS, Washington Commanders in NFL and the NWSL's Washington Spirit. Also, his philanthropic work also supports underserved communities through this Magic Johnson Foundation.
Former Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, former Secretary of Defense Ash Carter, civil and voting rights Fannie Lou Hamer, and former Michigan Gov. George Romney are posthumously receiving the honor.
In his remarks, President Biden highlighted the impact of each honoree's work. "You all literally embody the nation's creed, e pluribus unum out of many, one", Biden told in the White House East Room. "You feed the hungry. You give hope to those who are hurting, and you craft the signs and sounds our movements and our memories".
The ceremony also celebrated notables figures from the entertainment industry, such as actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, and U2 singer Bono, who were exalted for their contributions to the arts and their charitable efforts.
Chef José Andrés was honoured for his humanitarian work, particularly his initiatives to provide food relief in disaster-stricken areas. Football legend, Lionel Messi, was awarded for his support in education programs and children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation.
Other honorees included civil rights activists, LGBTQ+ advocates, and leaders in various fields, each celebrated for their tireless efforts to advance equality, justice, and human dignity.