President Joe Biden held a star-studded ceremony at the White House on Saturday for the latest batch of Medal of Freedom recipients — which include Bono, José Andrés, Michael J. Fox, Denzel Washington, Hillary Clinton and many more.

President Biden Hosts Star-Studded Medal of Freedom Ceremony at the White House

On Saturday, President Joe Biden presided over a star-studded ceremony at the White House to honor the latest recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award. The honorees included luminaries from various fields, such as U2 frontman Bono, celebrity chef and humanitarian José Andrés, actor and activist Michael J. Fox, iconic performer Denzel Washington, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, among others.

A Celebration of Excellence and Service

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the United States, whether through public service, cultural impact, or acts of extraordinary compassion. This year’s ceremony highlighted a diverse array of achievements, showcasing the breadth of talent, dedication, and vision that define the American spirit.

“We honor these individuals not just for what they’ve accomplished, but for the example they set for all of us,” President Biden said during the ceremony. “Their work reminds us that each of us has the power to inspire change and improve lives.”

The Honorees

• Bono: The Irish musician and activist was recognized for his decades of humanitarian work, particularly in fighting poverty and advocating for global health initiatives.

• José Andrés: The celebrity chef and founder of World Central Kitchen has provided meals to millions of people affected by natural disasters and crises worldwide, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Michael J. Fox: A beloved actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease research, Fox was honored for his courage in raising awareness and funding for medical advancements.

• Denzel Washington: One of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors, Washington was celebrated for his artistic achievements and commitment to charitable causes.

• Hillary Clinton: The former Secretary of State and first woman to be nominated for president by a major political party was recognized for her lifelong dedication to public service and advocacy for women’s and children’s rights.

Other Notable Recipients

In addition to these high-profile figures, the ceremony honored educators, scientists, and activists whose contributions have profoundly impacted their communities and the nation. Each recipient received the iconic medal, a symbol of their enduring legacy.

An Evening of Inspiration

The White House ceremony featured heartfelt speeches, performances, and standing ovations as attendees celebrated the recipients’ accomplishments. Many of the honorees spoke about the people and causes that inspired their journeys.

Michael J. Fox, for example, reflected on his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease and the community that has supported him: “This medal is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the belief that together we can make a difference.”

Bono, known for his activism as much as his music, spoke about the importance of unity: “This is a moment to reflect on what connects us, not what divides us.”

A Tradition of Recognition

The Medal of Freedom ceremony continues a tradition of celebrating those who embody the values of courage, compassion, and excellence. President Biden, who has placed a strong emphasis on healing divisions and uplifting voices from all walks of life, used the occasion to highlight the importance of service and collaboration.

“These honorees remind us of who we are at our best: a nation of dreamers, doers, and trailblazers,” Biden said.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 recipients join a distinguished group of past honorees, further cementing their place in American history. As the event concluded with applause and gratitude, the evening served as a reminder of the power of individual contributions to shape a better future for all.