Ralph Lauren, Hillary Clinton, Jane Goodall, Denzel Washington and Bono are among the 19 people who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden at a ceremony at the White House today (Jan. 4).
Other recipients on the list of 19 awards include football star Lionel Messi, basketball legend Magic Johnson, Michael J Fox, Bill Nighy, chef José Andrés and Anna Wintour.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor of the United States, presented to people who have made significant contributions to the “prosperity, values, or security” of the nation, promoted world peace, or other significant and recognizable “civic, public, or private endeavors” ” have done. ”
The event took place on Saturday, January 4 at the White House, with the winners in attendance. Messi was unable to attend due to a scheduling problem. Four medals were awarded posthumously.
“Together, you are leaving an incredible mark – and I mean this sincerely, this group – you are leaving an incredible mark on our country,” Biden said as he addressed the winners.
“For the last time as President, I have the honor to present the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, to a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people who have made their sacred effort, their sacred effort, to shape culture and society. cause of America,” he said in his opening statement.
Photo: Tom Brenner (Getty Images)