This year’s Presidential Medal of Freedom winners includes editorial leader Anna Wintour, who was honored alongside 18 other recipients.
The White House praised Wintour, stating, “Anna Wintour is a renowned fashion icon who has led Vogue as editor in chief since 1988. A champion for philanthropic causes, she is also the leading architect behind the annual Met Gala fundraiser and chief content officer of Condé Nast.”
Wintour, editor-in-chief of *Vogue* since 1988, has raised over $20 million for AIDS research and supported UK arts organisations during funding cuts in 2022.
President Biden also awarded the medals to notable figures such as Hillary Clinton, Bono, Magic Johnson, Michael J. Fox, Denzel Washington, Jane Goodall, and José Andrés. Additionally, he posthumously recognized Robert Kennedy, Ashton Baldwin Carter, and Fannie Lou Hamer.
According to the White House, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is “the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established under President John F. Kennedy and is awarded at the discretion of the sitting president, following advice from an advisory panel.
Previous recipients include gymnast Simone Biles, actress Michelle Yeoh, and Apple founder Steve Jobs.
Olekanma Favour is a resourceful, self-motivated, and result-driven writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives and insightful content. She loves tackling complex topics and weaving engaging stories.
When she’s not writing, Olekanma enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring new cuisines, and discovering new cultures.