President Biden Awards Presidential Medal of Freedom to Bono, Hillary Clinton, Soros, Denzel, Bill Nye, and 14 Others
Honorees include actors, activists, and global leaders recognized for their lasting contributions to society.
In a ceremony filled with emotion and applause, President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to 19 recipients on Saturday, January 4, 2025. The honorees, described by Biden as individuals who have “made America a better place,” represent a wide spectrum of achievements in public service, activism, arts, and philanthropy.
Among the recipients was Hillary Clinton, who received a standing ovation as she accepted the award. Clinton’s career has spanned decades as first lady, U.S. senator, secretary of state, and the first woman nominated for president by a major political party. The White House praised her for “making history many times over” and for her dedication to public service.
The honorees reflected a rich diversity of accomplishments. Hollywood icons Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington were recognized for their contributions to film and advocacy, while U2 front man Bono was acknowledged for his global humanitarian efforts. Sports legends Lionel Messi and Magic Johnson joined philanthropists such as George Soros and David Rubenstein on the list.
Posthumous honors were given to civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney. Other recipients included Dr. Jane Goodall, chef José Andrés, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, and science educator Bill Nye.
“Together, you leave an incredible mark on our country,” Biden remarked during the ceremony, addressing the honorees. His heartfelt speech was punctuated by a lighthearted moment when his young grandson, Beau Biden, made noise from the crowd. “Kids rule in this house,” the president quipped, drawing laughter from the attendees.
Several recipients, including Andrés and Fox, were visibly emotional as they received their medals, highlighting the personal significance of the recognition.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, is awarded to individuals who have made “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors.”
As Biden presented the final award of the evening, he remarked, “Not a bad group, huh?” His comment underscored the extraordinary caliber of the recipients, each of whom has left an indelible mark on American society.
Lionel Messi, unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts, sent his gratitude through a statement shared by the White House.
