WASHINGTON, DC, USA – President Joe Biden honoured Hillary Clinton and 18 other distinguished individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday, January 4, 2025, celebrating their significant contributions to society.
The ceremony, held at the White House, recognised leaders, activists, artists, and philanthropists who “have made America a better place,” according to the president.
Clinton, the former first lady, senator, secretary of state, and the first woman to be nominated for president by a major political party, received a standing ovation as her name was called.
The White House highlighted her history-making career, calling it “decades of exemplary public service.”

Diverse Recipients Represent Excellence Across Fields
The honorees spanned various professions and causes, reflecting the broad impact of their work.
- Denzel Washington, an Academy Award-winning actor, was celebrated for his contributions to culture and philanthropy.
- Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami soccer star, was acknowledged for his influence on global sports, though he was unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.
- Bono, U2 frontman and activist, was honoured for his efforts in global humanitarian initiatives.
- Michael J. Fox, actor and advocate, was recognized for his tireless efforts in Parkinson’s disease research.

Posthumous Awards
The ceremony also remembered influential figures who were honoured posthumously:
- Former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, a symbol of civil rights advocacy.
- Civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, recognized for her pioneering work in voting rights.
- Former Defense Secretary Ash Carter and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney were celebrated for their public service.

President Joe Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to singer Bono in the East Room of the White House, in Washington, D.C., Jan. 4, 2025. | Ken Cedeno/Reuters
Other Distinguished Honorees
- Conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall for her groundbreaking work with primates.
- Basketball legend Magic Johnson for his leadership in sports and HIV awareness.
- Chef and humanitarian José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen, for addressing food insecurity globally.
- Fashion icon Ralph Lauren, science educator Bill Nye, and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour for their lasting influence in their respective fields.

A Lighthearted Ceremony
President Biden shared personal anecdotes and lighthearted moments during the ceremony.
As his grandson Beau Biden made noise from the audience, Biden quipped, “Kids rule in this house.”
Several honorees, including Andrés and Fox, became visibly emotional during their acknowledgements.
Biden praised the collective achievements of the group, stating, “Together, you leave an incredible mark on our country.”

President Joe Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Chef and head of World Central Kitchen Jose Andres in the East Room of the White House, in Washington, D.C., Jan. 4, 2025. | Ken Cedeno/Reuters
A Tradition of Recognition
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, is the nation’s highest civilian honour.
It celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to U.S. prosperity, values, or security, as well as world peace or significant societal advancements.
As the ceremony concluded, Biden reflected on the diverse group of recipients, saying with admiration, “Not a bad group, huh?”
