Key Points:
- Biden’s Farewell Honor: Outgoing US President Joe Biden awards the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to 14 distinguished individuals.
- Honorees: The list includes Hillary Clinton, George Soros, Anna Wintour, Bill Nye, Denzel Washington, and posthumous awardees like Fannie Lou Hamer and Robert Francis Kennedy.
- Lionel Messi Absent: Football icon Lionel Messi could not attend the ceremony due to prior commitments.
- Soros Recognition: George Soros, a polarizing figure globally, was recognized, with his son Alex Soros accepting the award on his behalf.
- Biden’s Reflection: In his final act as President, Biden praised the honorees for their profound influence on America’s culture and purpose.
Washington D.C: In a poignant farewell ceremony at the White House, outgoing US President Joe Biden awarded the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom to 14 remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on American society. The ceremony, held in the East Room, was attended by former President Bill Clinton, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Cabinet members, and other distinguished guests.
“For the last time as President, I have the honor of awarding our country’s highest civilian honor to a group of extraordinary people,” Biden said. “These individuals have shaped the culture, vision, and purpose of our nation, leaving a legacy that extends from our cities to the most remote corners of the world.”
A Star-Studded List of Honorees
The honorees included:
- Hillary Clinton: Former Secretary of State and a towering political figure.
- George Soros: Billionaire philanthropist and founder of the Open Society Foundation.
- Anna Wintour: The iconic editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine.
- Bill Nye: Celebrated scientist and science communicator.
- Denzel Washington: Acclaimed actor and cultural icon.
Posthumous Recognitions
Four individuals were honored posthumously for their transformative contributions:
- Fannie Lou Hamer: Civil rights leader and a fierce advocate for racial justice.
- Robert Francis Kennedy: Former Attorney General who opposed racial segregation.
- Ashton Carter: The 25th US Defense Secretary.
- George W. Romney: Business magnate and chairman of American Motors Corporation.
Family members received the awards on behalf of these late luminaries.
George Soros: A Controversial Inclusion
George Soros, a polarizing figure in global politics, was among the recipients. His son, Alex Soros, accepted the medal on his behalf. Known for his philanthropy through the Open Society Foundation, Soros has faced accusations of funding opposition movements worldwide, including in India. His recognition sparked discussions, as his name has often been linked to debates in India’s Parliament and political discourse.
Lionel Messi’s Absence
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, also among the awardees, could not attend due to pre-scheduled commitments. His absence was noted, but his contributions to global sports were acknowledged during the ceremony.
Biden Reflects on Legacy
In his farewell address, Biden emphasized the extraordinary contributions of the honorees. “This group has left an incredible mark on our country and the world,” he said, highlighting their influence in shaping America’s cultural and global identity.
Significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the security, national interests, or cultural and intellectual life of the United States. As Joe Biden exits the presidency, this final act underscores his acknowledgment of diverse voices shaping America’s past, present, and future.
