President Joe Biden will present the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals today at the White House. Honorees include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, actor and director Denzel Washington, and soccer legend Lionel Messi, among others.
This award recognizes exemplary contributions to U.S. prosperity, values, security, global peace, and other notable endeavors. Four recipients will be honored posthumously, including Fannie Lou Hamer, Robert F. Kennedy, George Romney, and Ash Carter.
Other prominent recipients include Bono (U2 frontman and activist), chef José Andrés, basketball legend Magic Johnson, actor Michael J. Fox, conservationist Jane Goodall, and fashion designer Ralph Lauren.
This year’s honorees highlight achievements in politics, sports, science, arts, and activism.
