President Biden recently honored 19 individuals with the United States’ highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Notable recipients included former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, former Vice-President Al Gore, and former Secretary of State John Kerry. Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, who played a crucial role in Biden’s 2020 primary campaign, also received the award. Biden emphasized the importance of the award in showcasing the ideals of freedom and unity to the world.
Several civil rights leaders were recognized among the recipients, such as LGBTQ activist Judy Shepard, Juneteenth recognition advocate Opal Lee, lawyer Clarence Jones, and Mississippi civil rights leader Medgar Evers. United Farm Workers president Teresa Romero and anti-gang ministry organizer Fr. Greg Boyle were also honored. Additionally, other recipients included long-time talk-show host Phil Donahue, Olympian Katie Ledecky, Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh, astronomer Jane Rigby, and former NASA Johnson Space Center director Ellen Ochoa. The first American Indian Olympic gold medalist, Jim Thorpe, and late Democratic Sen. Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey received posthumous awards.
Established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, the Presidential Medal of Freedom replaced the Medal of Freedom established by President Harry S. Truman in 1945. It is the highest civilian award in the nation and is intended to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, or cultural and other public or private endeavors. Former President Barack Obama awarded Biden the medal on Jan. 12, 2017, while he was serving as vice president.
The roster for the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony was announced by the White House, with many of the recipients being Democratic allies of President Biden. The only Republican lawmaker recognized was former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, who served in the cabinets of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. Biden highlighted the importance of the medal in promoting the values of freedom and unity, emphasizing its role in showcasing the ideals of America to the world. The recipients included a diverse group of individuals from various fields, including politics, civil rights, sports, entertainment, science, and more.
The recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom represented a diverse group of individuals, ranging from civil rights leaders to athletes to scientists. The award ceremony honored individuals who have made significant contributions to society in various ways, highlighting their efforts to promote freedom, unity, and peace. The recipients included individuals who have worked tirelessly to advance important causes, such as LGBTQ rights, civil rights, and anti-gang violence initiatives. The award serves as a tribute to their dedication and commitment to making a positive impact in their respective fields.
Overall, the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony recognized individuals who have made a lasting impact on society and have contributed to the betterment of the nation and the world. The recipients were chosen for their significant contributions to the security, national interests, and cultural endeavors of the United States. By honoring these individuals, President Biden highlighted the importance of promoting freedom, unity, and peace as essential values that represent the best of America. The recipients of the award were recognized for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to making a positive difference in the world, showcasing the transformative power of individual efforts in shaping a better future.
