A Galaxy of Luminaries: LA News Center Unveils Medal of Freedom Recipients
Washington D.C. – A constellation of esteemed individuals was beamed into the spotlight Friday as the LA News Center unveiled the illustrious recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s most prestigious civilian accolade. Notably, several key Democratic allies graced the list.
Democratic Stalwarts Honored
Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Vice President Al Gore, and Secretary of State John Kerry were among the renowned Democratic figures to receive the coveted medal. Democratic Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, whose endorsement proved pivotal in Biden’s presidential campaign, was also bestowed with this prestigious recognition.
Civil Rights Torchbearers
The civil rights movement was well-represented among the honorees. Acclaimed LGBTQ activist Judy Shepard, tireless Juneteenth advocate Opal Lee, renowned lawyer Clarence Jones, and iconic Mississippi civil rights leader Medgar Evers each earned recognition for their unwavering dedication to equality.
United Farm Workers president Teresa Romero and esteemed Catholic priest Fr. Greg Boyle, founder of an anti-gang ministry, were also recipients of the prestigious award.
Inspirations Across Fields
Other recipients encompassed a diverse array of fields and accomplishments. Phil Donahue, the pioneering talk show host; Olympian Katie Ledecky, holder of multiple world records; and Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh, renowned for her groundbreaking roles, were among those recognized.
Jane Rigby, a distinguished astronomer, and Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, received medals for their remarkable contributions to science. Jim Thorpe, the first American Indian to win Olympic gold, was posthumously honored, as was the late Democratic Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey.
A Sole Republican
The sole Republican honoree was former Senator Elizabeth Dole, who served in the cabinets of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.
A Presidential Legacy
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, replacing an earlier award established in 1945. It is the highest civilian honor in the nation, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the country’s national interests, world peace, or cultural or other significant endeavors.
President Biden’s Own Medal
Notably, President Biden himself received the Medal of Freedom in 2017 from then-President Barack Obama while serving as his vice president. The award served as a testament to his unwavering service to the nation.
Images:
[Image of President Joe Biden speaking at a campaign event]
[Image of the Medal of Freedom, presented by President Richard M. Nixon]
[Image of President Barack Obama presenting the Medal of Freedom to Vice President Joe Biden]
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
