Biden Honors 19 Individuals with the Prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, Including Hillary Clinton and George Soros
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Washington, Jan 4 (NationPress) On Saturday, outgoing US President Joe Biden will bestow the prestigious 'Presidential Medal of Freedom' - the highest civilian award in the United States - upon 19 distinguished individuals, including former first lady, senator, and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the contentious Hungarian-born billionaire investor George Soros.
The honorees also feature basketball icon Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, soccer superstar Lionel Messi, singer-activist Bono, actor Denzel Washington, and fashion mogul Ralph Lauren.
According to a statement from the White House, 'The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honour, awarded to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours.'
The statement continued, 'President Biden believes that great leaders maintain faith, ensure everyone has an equal opportunity, and prioritize decency above all else. These nineteen individuals embody great leadership and have positively impacted America and the world. They have made remarkable contributions as good people.'
The awards ceremony will take place at the White House on Saturday evening, according to Indian Standard Time.
The White House highlighted 'Secretary Clinton's historic achievements over decades in public service, noting her role as the first First Lady elected to the United States Senate. Following her tenure as Secretary of State, she became the first woman to receive a major political party's nomination for president in the United States.
Furthermore, Soros is described as an investor, philanthropist, and the founder of the Open Society Foundations.
According to the White House, 'Soros has concentrated on global initiatives through a network of foundations, partners, and projects in over 120 countries, focusing on strengthening democracy, human rights, education, and social justice.'
Meanwhile, Magic Johnson, the legendary former basketball player who led the Los Angeles Lakers to five championships, is recognized for his success as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. On the other hand, football legend Lionel Messi is being honored for his achievements as the most decorated player in professional soccer history, alongside his support for healthcare and education programs for children globally via the Leo Messi Foundation and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
