On January 5, 2025, President Joe Biden hosted a special ceremony at the White House to honour 19 exceptional individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The awardees represented diverse fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports. Among them were notable figures such as Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, and the late Robert F. Kennedy, who was posthumously recognized. Renowned personalities like Lionel Messi, Jane Goodall, and Denzel Washington were also celebrated, although Messi was unable to attend due to prior commitments.

What Is the Presidential Medal of Freedom?

The Presidential Medal of Freedom stands as the United States’ highest civilian honour. It is awarded to individuals who significantly contribute to national interests, global peace, or cultural advancement. First introduced in 1945 by President Harry S. Truman, the medal was redefined under President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Its design features a white star resting on a red pentagon, surrounded by five gold eagles, with a blue centre displaying 13 gold stars—symbolising the nation’s core values and heritage.

How Are Recipients Chosen?

The process for selecting honourees is broad and flexible. The President has the ultimate authority to choose awardees, either based on personal judgement or recommendations. Since 1970, Executive Order 11515 has formalised this discretion. Occasionally, members of Congress may suggest potential candidates through letters of recommendation.

Political and Cultural Reflections in Selection

The honourees often mirror the political priorities and cultural values of the sitting President. For instance, Biden’s 2025 list included Mitt Romney, a Republican leader and outspoken critic of Donald Trump, signalling bipartisan acknowledgment. In contrast, during Trump’s presidency, recipients included prominent conservative figures such as Antonin Scalia and Orrin Hatch. This evolving list of awardees showcases the intersection of politics, culture, and personal values over the years.

Legacy and Notable Recipients

Since its inception, the Presidential Medal of Freedom has been awarded to a wide array of trailblazers, including Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Rosa Parks, and Muhammad Ali. Non-U.S. citizens and military personnel are also eligible for the honour, reflecting its global and inclusive scope. The rare distinction of receiving the medal “with distinction” exists, though it is granted entirely at the President’s discretion, with no formal criteria guiding its assignment.

Design and Meaning Behind the Medal

The medal’s intricate design carries profound symbolism. The white star signifies excellence, the red pentagon represents courage, and the gold eagles embody freedom. The blue circle with 13 gold stars pays tribute to America’s original colonies. Together, these elements encapsulate the ideals the medal seeks to uphold—excellence, bravery, and service to humanity.

Through this prestigious award, the United States recognizes individuals whose contributions leave an indelible mark on society, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.