Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono, and billionaire George Soros were among those honored with America’s highest civilian award by outgoing President Joe Biden.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox as recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom during a White House ceremony.
This year, 19 individuals were recognized for their contributions across culture, politics, and activism. According to the White House, the recipients were selected for being "good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world."
During the ceremony, President Biden addressed the honorees, saying, “Together, you leave an incredible mark—and I mean this sincerely—this group leaves an incredible mark on our country.”
Bono, whose real name is Paul David Hewson, has previously been awarded France’s highest cultural honor and received an honorary knighthood. He is widely recognized for his advocacy against poverty and support for HIV/AIDS initiatives.
Dame Anna Wintour, a pivotal figure in fashion as Vogue’s editor-in-chief since 1988, has raised over $20 million for AIDS research and supported UK arts organizations during funding cuts in 2022.
Billionaire philanthropist and Democratic donor George Soros was celebrated for funding organizations that promote democracy, human rights, education, and social justice worldwide.
Actor Michael J. Fox, known for his Parkinson’s disease advocacy, appeared emotional as Biden highlighted his contributions. Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, received a standing ovation during her recognition.
Others honored included Inter Miami soccer star Lionel Messi, retired NBA legend Magic Johnson, and iconic fashion designer Ralph Lauren. American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr. and former Kennedy Center chair David Rubinstein were also among the medal recipients.
Humanitarian chef José Andrés, who leads World Central Kitchen to provide food in disaster zones, was honored alongside British conservationist Jane Goodall and science educator Bill Nye.
Posthumous awards were given to figures such as civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney.
Established by President John F. Kennedy, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded at the president's discretion with input from an advisory panel.
Previous recipients include gymnast Simone Biles, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, and Apple co-founder Steve Jobs.
