In just over two weeks, President Joe Biden will leave office. Before that, he will present America’s highest civilian honor. Among the recipients: a fashion designer, sports legends and a rockstar.
Hollywood stars, fashion icons and a famous primatologist: shortly before the end of his mandate, US President Joe Biden honored 19 personalities with the Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian distinction. During a ceremony at the White House, Biden personally presented the medal to the recipients in attendance. A comical moment occurred when basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson knelt with his back to Biden, due to his height.
Thus, musicians like Bono of the group U2, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, as well as fashion designer Ralph Lauren, received their medals directly from the hands of the president. Footballer Lionel Messi was absent from the event, while influential philanthropic figure George Soros was represented by his son, facing criticism from some quarters.
The prestigious “Presidential Medal Of Freedom” recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions “to the security or national interest of the United States, world peace, and cultural or other public concerns of importance.” Biden presented this distinction for the last time before leaving office on January 20.
Other recipients include primatologist Jane Goodall, fashion journalist Anna Wintour and former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, a Biden party comrade.
