Bono, Denzel Washington, and Michael J. Fox were among the 19 recipients of the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, presented by President Joe Biden. The award recognises “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours”.
The star-studded list also included Hillary Clinton, Lionel Messi, Anna Wintour, conservationist Jane Goodall, and Lakers legend Magic Johnson. Designer Ralph Lauren and World Central Kitchen founder José Andrés also joined the celebrated cohort, with the recipients spanning a remarkable array of disciplines and causes.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Bono reflected on the honour: “Frontmen don’t do humble, but today I was. Rock n roll gave me my freedom… and with it the privilege to work alongside those who’ve had to fight so much harder for theirs. And I want to give it up for my band mates – Edge, Adam, and Larry – without whom I would never have found my voice.”
Bono’s words encapsulate the award’s spirit: acknowledging the profound impact of individuals who have harnessed their talents and platforms to inspire change.
President Biden himself emphasised this sentiment in a statement, saying, “President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These 19 Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
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- Bono
- Denzel Washington
- Jane Goodall
- Joe Biden
- Lionel Messi
- Magic Johnson
- Michael J. Fox
- Presidential Medal Of Freedom
- U2
