President Joe Biden is set to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals, including Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono, and billionaire philanthropist George Soros. This esteemed accolade is America's highest civilian honor, acknowledging remarkable contributions to society and the world. The White House commended the recipients as "good people who have made extraordinary contributions" in various fields upon announcing the ceremony.
The award presentation is scheduled for this Saturday at the White House, with Biden leading the celebratory event. Bono, whose real name is Paul David Hewson, has previously been recognized by France with its highest cultural award and has received an honorary knighthood for his advocacy work against global poverty and support for those affected by HIV/Aids.
Dame Anna Wintour, a titan of the fashion industry, has helmed Vogue as editor-in-chief since 1988. She has made significant charitable contributions, including raising over $20 million for Aids research and financially supporting UK arts organizations facing funding challenges in 2022. Alongside them, George Soros has emerged as a major Democratic donor and philanthropy stalwart, previously facing threats due to his political stance.
The cohort of recipients also includes prominent figures such as former Senator Hillary Clinton, actors Denzel Washington, and Michael J. Fox, as well as sports icons like Lionel Messi and Earvin "Magic" Johnson. Renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren, American Film Institute founder George Stevens Jr., and humanitarian chef José Andrés, who has provided food relief in crisis zones through World Central Kitchen, are also among the honorees.
Other notable recipients include acclaimed British conservationist Jane Goodall and science advocate Bill Nye. Some individuals will be recognized posthumously, such as former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, emphasizing the medal's broad recognition of impactful lives.
Established by President John F. Kennedy, the Presidential Medal of Freedom continues to be awarded at the discretion of the current president, based on recommendations from an external advisory panel. Past honorees of this prestigious medal include celebrated figures like gymnast Simone Biles, actress Michelle Yeoh, and Apple founder Steve Jobs, marking it as a significant symbol of honor and recognition for extraordinary achievements in various domains.
