The president of the United States, Joe Biden, delivered this Saturday a recognition a 19 entertainment characterslthe politics y the sporte for his contribution to the country, including the Spanish chef Jose Andres and the Argentine soccer player Lionel Messiwho was not present at the event. The Democrat awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, to other personalities such as the former Secretary of State Hilary Clintonduring a ceremony at the White House.
The winners were chosen for being “really extraordinarywho have made an effort to shape the American culture and cause,” President Joe Biden explained in a speech before presenting the medal. Only some of the recipients were physically present at the ceremony and some figures such as Messi or the philanthropist and top democrat donor George Soroswere absent from the event.
Along with his husband, Jill Biden, the president thanked the entire group for bringing “healing and joy to so many people.”
“Thank you very much for everything you have done to help this country, you literally embody the creed of this country“said Biden, in what will be his last delivery of these decorations, which are celebrated annually, before leaving the presidency in favor of the president-elect Donald Trump.
Among those honored are also the basketball player Magic Johnsonthe editor of Vogue magazine, Anna Wintour o Robert F. Kennedyto whom the recognition will be given posthumously. Of Jose Andreswho attended the ceremony in person, the White House highlighted his work to bring food in war zones or in places devastated by natural disastersin a job that is sometimes very risky as was proven in the Gaza Strip, where several aid workers died due to Israeli air attacks.
“Big dreams”
“José Andrés came to the US with little money and big dreams. Throughout three decadesmastered his culinary art with renowned restaurants that encompass cultures and gastronomy and unite people,” said the master of ceremonies of the event, before presenting the medal to the Spanish chef. He added that José Andrés: “taught us that there is a position for everyone at the table.
Messi, who has been playing for the team since 2023 Inter Miamiwas selected both for being the “most decorated football player” in the history of the sport, and for his support of education and health programs for children around the world, according to the White House in a statement. The conservationist and scientist Jane Goodall and several actors, athletes or entertainment figures, such as the U2 singer Bonothe actors Michael J. Fox y Denzel Washingtonwere also awarded.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award awarded by the president of the United States and is considered the country’s highest award.
