Biden awards Anna Wintour, George Soros and Bono with Medal of Freedom

Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono and billionaire George Soros are amongst those that have acquired America’s highest civilian honour from outgoing President Joe Biden.

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined actors Denzel Washington and Michael J Fox as in addition they acquired the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White Home ceremony on Saturday.

Nineteen folks acquired the honour this yr, spanning the worlds of tradition, politics and activism.

The White Home mentioned the recipients had been chosen as a result of are they’re “good individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their nation and the world”.

“Collectively, you permit an unimaginable mark – and I imply this sincerely, this group – you permit an unimaginable mark on our nation.”

Bono, who’s actual identify is Paul David Hewson, has already been awarded the very best cultural honour of France and acquired an honorary knighthood.

He’s identified for campaigning towards poverty and supporting these with HIV/Aids.

Wintour, one of the important gamers in vogue, has been serving as editor-in-chief of Vogue since 1988 and amongst different charities helped raised greater than $20m for Aids analysis.

She additionally raised cash for UK arts organisations following funding cuts in 2022.

The White Home mentioned in a press release that billionaire philanthropist and Democratic megadonor George Soros had “supported organizations and tasks the world over that strengthen democracy, human rights, schooling and social justice”.

Again to the Future star Michael J Fox seemed emotional as Biden praised his accomplishments, together with his advocacy for Parkinson’s illness analysis.

Hillary Clinton acquired a standing ovation from attendees when her flip got here. She was the Democratic White Home candidate who misplaced to Donald Trump within the 2016 election.

Inter Miami soccer star Lionel Messi, retired Los Angeles Lakers basketball participant Earvin “Magic” Johnson and clothier Ralph Lauren additionally acquired the medal.

American Movie Institute founder George Stevens Jr and former Kennedy Middle chair David Rubinstein had been among the many cohort receiving medals.

Different recipients embrace humanitarian and chef José Andrés, whose World Central Kitchen has helped present meals for civilians in conflict zones and areas hit by pure disasters; acclaimed British conservationist Jane Goodall and science educator Invoice Nye.

Former US Legal professional Normal Robert F Kennedy, former Defence Secretary Ash Carter, civil rights chief Fannie Lou Hamer and former Governor of Michigan George W Romney will obtain the award posthumously.

Established underneath former president John F Kennedy, the medal is awarded on the discretion of the president on the recommendation of an exterior advisory panel.

Earlier recipients of the award embrace probably the most adorned gymnast of all time Simone Biles, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh and Apple founder Steve Jobs.