On a chilly Saturday afternoon, President Joe Biden conferred the Presidential Medal of Freedom on nineteen exceptional individuals, including Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and actor Denzel Washington. The ceremony took place in the White House's East Room, where recipients were applauded for their impressive contributions to various fields such as politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

Clinton, accompanied by her husband, former President Bill Clinton, daughter Chelsea, and grandchildren, received a standing ovation upon accepting her award. President Biden described this occasion as his final opportunity to present the nation's highest civilian honor, expressing gratitude for the significant impacts these leaders have made on American culture and values. He stated, "These extraordinary people have given their sacred effort to shape the culture and the cause of America," (source: LA Times).

Among the other honorees were Bono, the lead singer of U2; celebrated chef José Andrés, recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the World Central Kitchen; and Lionel Messi, the renowned professional soccer player who did not attend the event. Other notable personalities receiving the accolade include Michael J. Fox, acclaimed for advocating Parkinson's disease awareness; and Bill Nye the Science Guy, an influential scientific educator.

Four medals were awarded posthumously to significant figures, including civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer and former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, who was highlighted by Biden as one of his political heroes. Hamer, a pioneering advocate of voting rights, was instrumental in the formation of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party.

The White House emphasized that the Medal of Freedom recipients had made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors," encapsulating the diverse backgrounds and achievements of the awardees (source: USA Today).

Controversy surrounded the announcement, particularly regarding George Soros, whose selection elicited backlash from supporters of former President Donald Trump, highlighting the political divides that characterize contemporary discussions on philanthropy and activism (source: Newsweek).

This year's presentation follows last year's ceremony, where Biden honored other distinguished individuals, showcasing a continuing tradition of recognizing those who significantly shape American society (source: VOA News).

For more information about the honorees and the awarded contributions, visit ABC News.