President Joe Biden to Honour 19 With the Presidential Medal of Freedom

On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, recognizing exceptional contributions in various fields, including diplomacy, sports, politics, and the arts.

Among this year’s anticipated honourees are actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, singer and activist Bono, Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, and renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren. Long-time fashion editor Anna Wintour is also expected to receive the accolade.

According to a White House statement, the recipients “are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”

Other honourees include renowned environmentalist and primate researcher Jane Goodall, chef José Andrés, who founded the humanitarian NGO World Central Kitchen, and former First Lady, senator, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Billionaire investor and philanthropist George Soros is also set to be recognized.