President Joe Biden will honor 19 Americans with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The diverse list includes high-profile political allies such as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and South Carolina Rep. Jim Clyburn, who played key roles in supporting Biden’s presidency. Pelosi, the first woman to serve as speaker of the House, led Democratic opposition to former President Donald Trump and helped pass much of Biden’s legislative agenda. Clyburn helped secure Biden’s win in the 2020 primaries by rallying the Black vote in South Carolina.
Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who endorsed Biden after dropping out of the 2020 Democratic presidential race, will also receive the medal. Actress Michelle Yeoh, known for being the first woman of Asian descent to win the Academy Award for Best Actress, is among the honorees. The award recognizes individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, as well as other significant societal endeavors. Biden himself received the medal from President Barack Obama at the end of his administration.
The recipients Biden will honor include former public officials like former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, former Vice President Al Gore, and former Secretary of State John Kerry. Three posthumous recipients, including civil rights activists Medgar Evers and Jim Thorpe, will also be honored. Other civil rights advocates like Clarence B. Jones, Opal Lee, and Judy Shepard, who founded an organization in memory of her murdered son, will also be recognized. Other honorees include individuals from various fields, such as astronomer Jane Rigby, astronaut Ellen Ochoa, swimmer Katie Ledecky, journalist Phil Donahue, and Jesuit Catholic priest Greg Boyle.
The White House praised the recipients as leaders who have made a lasting impact on America through their work in various fields. Biden previously awarded medals in 2022 to individuals like gymnast Simone Biles, late Sen. John McCain, and gun-control advocate Gabby Giffords for their contributions to society. The medal symbolizes the recognition of exceptional individuals who have contributed to the betterment of the country through their leadership and accomplishments in different areas of society.
Overall, the diverse group of recipients showcases a wide range of talents and contributions to society, highlighting the importance of collaboration and teamwork in shaping America’s progress. The award ceremony reflects Biden’s commitment to honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to society and have proven themselves as exemplary leaders in their respective fields. The honorees represent a legacy of leadership and dedication to making a positive impact on society, embodying the values of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
