Vogue editor-in-chief Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono and billionaire George Soros are among those to receive America’s highest civilian honor from outgoing President Joe Biden.
Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined actors Denzel Washington and Michael J Fox to also receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a ceremony at the White House.
Nineteen people received this honor this year, from the worlds of culture, politics and activism.
The White House said the recipients were chosen because they were “good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
Getty ImagesAt Saturday afternoon’s ceremony, Biden told the recipients: “Together you leave an incredible mark – and I mean this sincerely, this group – you leave an incredible mark on our country.” »
Bonoreal name Paul David Hewson, has already received France’s highest cultural distinction and received the title of honorary knighthood.
He is known for campaigning against poverty and supporting people with HIV/AIDS.
Wintourone of the most important players in the fashion world, has been editor-in-chief of Vogue since 1988 and, among other charities, has helped raise more than $20 million for AIDS research.
She too money collected for UK arts organizations following funding cuts in 2022.
ReutersThe White House said in a statement that the billionaire philanthropist and Democratic megadonor George Soros had “supported organizations and projects around the world that strengthen democracy, human rights, education and social justice”.
The star of Back to the Future Michael Fox looked emotional as Biden praised his accomplishments, including his advocacy for Parkinson’s research.
The president hugged the actor and director Denzel Washington after giving him his medal.
Hillary Clinton received a standing ovation from the participants when his turn came. She was the Democratic candidate for the White House who lost to Donald Trump in the 2016 election.
Inter Miami soccer star Lionel Messiretired Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson and fashion designer Ralph Lauren also received the medal.
ReutersFounder of the American Film Institute George Stevens Jr. and former president of the Kennedy Center David Rubinstein were part of the cohort receiving medals.
Other recipients include the humanitarian and chef José Andrésincluding World Central Kitchen helped provide food to civilians in war zones and areas affected by natural disasters; famous British environmentalist Jane Goodall and science educator Bill Nye.
Former United States Attorney General Robert F. Kennedyformer Secretary of Defense Ash Cartercivil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and former governor of Michigan George W. Romney will receive the award posthumously.
Established under former President John F. Kennedy, the medal is awarded at the discretion of the president on the advice of an external advisory committee.
Previous recipients of the award include the most decorated gymnast of all time, Simone Biles, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh and Apple founder Steve Jobs.