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President Biden to Award Medal of Freedom to 19 Recipients
In a recent press release from the White House, it has been announced that President Biden will be awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to 19 deserving recipients. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, as well as efforts towards world peace and other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.
President Biden has often emphasized the importance of collective action, stating that there is nothing beyond our capacity when we come together. The nineteen Americans who will be honored with this award have exemplified this spirit through their work in building teams, coalitions, movements, organizations, and businesses that have positively shaped America.
Recipients of the Medal of Freedom
- Michael R. Bloomberg: Mayor Michael Bloomberg, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former three-term mayor, is known for his contributions to the financial information industry and his transformative impact on New York City’s education, environment, public health, and arts.
- Gregory J. Boyle: Father Greg Boyle, a Jesuit Catholic priest, is the founder of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program, helping thousands of individuals in Los Angeles turn their lives around.
- James E. Clyburn: Representative Jim Clyburn, a former Assistant Democratic Leader and Majority Whip, has been a transformative figure in the U.S. House of Representatives, impacting the lives of millions of Americans and championing freedom.
- Elizabeth Dole: Senator Elizabeth Dole, a trailblazing leader who has served in various governmental roles, including Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, and President of the American Red Cross, is recognized for her exemplary service and support for military caregivers.
- Phil Donahue: Journalist and television pioneer Phil Donahue, known for his groundbreaking daytime talk show, has been a leading figure in audience participation and issue-oriented television programming.
- Medgar Wiley Evers (posthumous): Medgar Evers, a World War II veteran and civil rights activist who fought against segregation in Mississippi, is honored posthumously for his dedication to justice and equality.
- Al Gore: Former Vice President Al Gore, a respected political figure and advocate for climate change action, has been recognized for his significant contributions to environmental protection and global peace efforts.
- Clarence B. Jones: Civil rights activist and lawyer Clarence B. Jones, known for his work on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, continues to be a powerful voice against discrimination and intolerance.
- John Forbes Kerry: Former Secretary of State John Kerry, who has had a distinguished career in public service, including bravery in combat during the Vietnam War and significant contributions to climate action, is being honored for his seven decades of service.
- Frank R. Lautenberg (posthumous): Senator Frank Lautenberg, a dedicated public servant and environmental advocate, is remembered posthumously for his critical work in areas such as environmental protection and consumer safety.
- Kathleen Genevieve Ledecky: Olympian Katie Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history, has achieved remarkable success in swimming, winning numerous gold medals and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
- Opal Lee: Educator and activist Opal Lee, known for her advocacy to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday, has played a vital role in promoting awareness and recognition of this significant day in American history.
- Ellen Ochoa: Astronaut Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space and former Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, continues to inspire future generations with her achievements in space exploration.
- Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, a prominent political figure and defender of democracy, has shaped legislative agendas and priorities in Congress, leaving a lasting impact on American politics.
- Jane Rigby: Astronomer Jane Rigby, a leading scientist in the field of astronomy, demonstrates the American spirit of discovery and wonder through her groundbreaking research and contributions to the scientific community.
- Teresa Romero: Labor leader Teresa Romero, the first Latina president of a national union in the U.S., has been a champion for workers’ rights and has secured important victories to improve the lives of those who contribute to the nation’s economy.
- Judy Shepard: Activist Judy Shepard, co-founder of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, has been instrumental in advocating for LGBTQ rights and combating hate crimes, contributing to significant progress in promoting equality and tolerance.
- James Francis Thorpe (posthumous): Athlete Jim Thorpe, the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal, broke barriers in sports and society, leaving a lasting legacy as a multi-sport superstar.
- Michelle Yeoh: Actress Michelle Yeoh, known for her diverse and pioneering work in film, has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and has helped shatter stereotypes, enriching American culture.
This esteemed list of recipients includes individuals who have made significant impacts on politics, policy, the environment, and various other fields. From historical figures like Jim Thorpe and Medgar Evers to influential leaders like John Kerry and Al Gore, each honoree has left a lasting mark on American society.
Representative Nancy Pelosi, one of the honorees, is celebrated as one of the greatest Speakers of the House in the nation’s history, demonstrating a remarkable legacy of leadership and service.
The diverse group of recipients represents the myriad struggles and triumphs of change in the United States, each deserving recognition for their exceptional contributions. The Biden administration’s choice of recipients for the Medal of Freedom reflects a commitment to honoring excellence, service, and dedication across various fields.
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