4-5-2024 (WASHINGTON) President Joe Biden has honoured 19 trailblazers with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian award. The ceremony at the White House saw Biden pay tribute to the “pioneers” for their groundbreaking achievements and service.
The recipients span fields from politics to entertainment, encompassing both Democrats and Republicans. They include former Vice President Al Gore, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Olympic swim champion Katie Ledecky, and actress Michelle Yeoh – the first Asian winner of the Best Actress Oscar.
In his citation, Biden hailed the honourees’ “relentless curiosity, ingenuity and hope” which has “kept faith in a better tomorrow.” He highlighted how their accomplishments have inspired others and advanced human rights.
Michelle Yeoh was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House today.pic.twitter.com/6IlDucb76b
— CONSEQUENCE (@consequence) May 4, 2024
A seeming swipe at his predecessor Donald Trump came as Biden referenced Gore’s disputed 2000 election loss. “He accepted the outcome…for the sake of unity and trust in our institutions,” Biden stated, implicitly contrasting Gore’s stance with Trump’s unfounded claims of electoral fraud after the 2020 vote.
Among the other boundary-breaking figures feted were Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space, and sporting legend Jim Thorpe – the first Native American to win Olympic gold. Biden celebrated their pioneering roles opening doors for others.
The diverse group also featured figures from the civil rights movement such as Rev. Wilton Gregory and Diane Nash. Meanwhile, former Senator Elizabeth Dole received the medal for her longtime advocacy supporting military caregivers.
In honouring the “giants of progress,” Biden encapsulated their spirit, saying: “They didn’t go along with the status quo, they helped remake American history for the better.”
