Patrick Kelechi, Lagos
DAILY COURIER – Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden has conferred the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, on a distinguished group of individuals, including Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, philanthropist George Soros, actor Denzel Washington, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Also among the honorees were scientist Bill Nye and 13 others recognized for their significant contributions to society.
Posthumous awards were presented to civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, former Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, former Attorney General Robert Francis Kennedy, and George W. Romney, the former president of American Motors Corporation. Their medals were received by family members.
The awards were presented during a star-studded ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Saturday afternoon.
In his address, President Biden praised the recipients for their remarkable contributions to the nation and the world.
“For the final time as President, I have the honor of bestowing the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, on a group of extraordinary people who gave their sacred effort to shape the culture and the cause of America,” Biden said.
“This group of people leaves an incredible mark on our country, with insight and influence that can be felt around the globe. As cultural icons, humanitarians, and leaders, you inspire, heal, and bring joy to countless lives. You defend America’s values, even in times of great challenge,” he added.
Hillary Clinton, former First Lady, Senator, and Secretary of State, was recognised for her lifelong dedication to public service.
A citation read by a military aide highlighted her advocacy for children’s rights, her leadership after the September 11 attacks, and her championing of democracy worldwide.
“As a lawyer, she defended the rights of children. As First Lady, she fought for universal health care. As Senator, she helped New York rebuild after 9/11. As Secretary of State, she championed democracy globally. Her career has been dedicated to the eternal truth that America’s ideals are sacred,” the citation stated.
Alex Soros accepted the award on behalf of his father, George Soros, whose recognition has sparked widespread debate across the U.S. The philanthropist was honored for his contributions to open societies and human rights worldwide.
The citation described Soros as a Hungarian immigrant who escaped Nazi occupation and built a life advocating for equity, justice, and freedom.
In a statement, Soros expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“As an immigrant who found freedom and prosperity in America, I am deeply moved by this honor. I accept it on behalf of the many people around the world with whom the Open Society Foundations have made common cause over the past 40 years,” he said.
His son Alex called the award a call to action. “This honor recognizes my father’s legacy and urges all of us to fight for democracy and human rights wherever they are threatened,” he said.
The ceremony drew a host of prominent figures, including former President Bill Clinton, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and several Hollywood and cultural icons.
However, Lionel Messi was notably absent from the event. His recognition as a global sports legend further underscores his profound influence beyond the football field.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963, honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security, national interests, culture, or other significant public or private endeavors in the United States.
