President Biden Announces 2025 Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients

On January 4, 2025, President Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the United States and the world. The Medal is the nation’s highest civilian honor and recognizes those who have advanced the nation’s values, security, and global peace. The recipients come from various sectors, including humanitarian work, music, politics, sports, science, and business.

The recipients are:

1. José Andrés - Renowned culinary innovator and humanitarian, founder of World Central Kitchen.

2. Bono - U2 frontman and activist, influential in global efforts against AIDS and poverty.

3. Ash Carter (posthumous) - Former Secretary of Defense, dedicated to national security and public service.

4. Hillary Rodham Clinton - Former Secretary of State, former First Lady, and groundbreaking political leader.

5. Michael J. Fox - Award-winning actor and advocate for Parkinson's disease research.

6. Tim Gill - Entrepreneur and advocate for LGBTQI rights and equality.

7. Jane Goodall - World-renowned ethologist and conservationist, known for her work with primates.

8. Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous) - Civil rights leader who championed voting rights and racial justice.

9. Earvin “Magic” Johnson - Legendary basketball player and philanthropist.

10. Robert F. Kennedy (posthumous) - Former Attorney General and Senator, remembered for his fight for justice and equality.

11. Ralph Lauren - Iconic fashion designer and philanthropist, renowned for his contributions to culture and business.

12. Lionel Messi - Soccer legend and philanthropist, supporting children’s health and education globally.

13. Bill Nye - Science educator and environmental advocate, best known as "Bill Nye the Science Guy."

14. George W. Romney (posthumous) - Business leader and former Governor of Michigan, known for his public service.

15. David M. Rubenstein - Co-founder of The Carlyle Group, philanthropist, and cultural preservationist.

16. George Soros - Investor and philanthropist, founder of the Open Society Foundations.

17. George Stevens, Jr. - Award-winning writer, director, and founder of the American Film Institute.

18. Denzel Washington - Acclaimed actor, director, and philanthropist, known for his contributions to the arts and community service.

19. Anna Wintour - Fashion icon and longtime editor-in-chief of Vogue, known for her leadership in fashion and philanthropy.

These honorees were selected for their outstanding leadership and their dedication to making the world a better place.