Just before leaving office, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country's highest civilian honor, to 19 change-makers who have left an “incredible legacy” to the nation.
“As a cultural icon, a defiant voice, a dignified voice, a humanitarian, a rock star, a sports star, you feed the hungry, you give hope to the hurting, you inspire our movements. and creating signs and sounds of remembrance. You know, that's amazing,” the president said of the honorees.
Among the recipients recognized by Biden were former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, scientist Bill Nye, actor Denzel Washington, and chef Jose Andrés. is included.
“Together, you are leaving a great mark. I say this from the heart, but this group here is leaving a great mark on our nation, with insight and influence that is felt in major cities and remote areas alike around the world. “I'm leaving it behind,” he said later. Added.
The president also invited former Michigan Governor George Romney, civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, former Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Biden's “political hero” former U.S. Attorney Robert F. Kennedy. The chief ministers were honored posthumously.
He described the group as “heroes of the highest order.”
“Ash Carter, Miss Fannie Lou Hamer, George Romney, Bobby Kennedy, heroes of the highest order, and Bobby Kennedy is one of my true political heroes. I love him and , I will miss you very much,” Biden said.
“Thank you to their families, and all of their families. We continue this sacred work of courage and conviction that you started. So today, I want to celebrate all that you have accomplished. I think so,” he added.
Biden's own family was also in attendance to watch him preside over one of his final ceremonies in office. First Lady Jill Biden sat in the front row next to former President Clinton. Hunter Biden and his son Beau also attended.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and other prominent Cabinet members sat in the front row to congratulate the Medal of Freedom recipients.
