Biden awards Anna Wintour, George Soros and Bono with the Medal of Freedom

Vogue editor Dame Anna Wintour, U2 frontman Bono and billionaire George Soros are among those who have received the highest honor of American citizens from outgoing President Joe Biden.

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined actors Denzel Washington and Michael J Fox as they also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony.

19 people received the honor this year, including cultural, political and activist.

The White House said the recipients were chosen because they are “good people who have made an extraordinary contribution to their country and to the world”.

At the ceremony on Saturday afternoon, Biden told the recipients: “Together, you are leaving a great mark – and I mean this sincerely, this group – you are leaving a great mark on our country.”

Bonowhose real name is Paul David Hewson, he has already been awarded the highest cultural honor in France and received a medal of honor.

He is famous for campaigning against poverty and supporting people with AIDS.

Wintourone of fashion’s most influential figures, she has served as Vogue’s editor-in-chief since 1988 and among other charities has helped raise over $20m for Aids research.

And with him money collected to UK arts organizations following funding cuts in 2022.

The White House said in a statement that he is a billionaire philanthropist and Democratic megadonor George Soros “it supported organizations and projects around the world that strengthen democracy, human rights, education and social justice”.

Back to Future star Michael J Fox she looked sad as Biden praised her accomplishments, including her advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research.

Hillary Clinton he received a standing ovation from the audience when his turn came. He was a Democratic White House candidate who was defeated by Donald Trump in the 2016 election.

Inter Miami soccer star Lionel Messiretired Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson and fashion designer Ralph Lauren too you got a medal.

Founder of the American Film Institute George Stevens Jr and former chairman of the Kennedy Center David Rubinstein they were among the group that received medals.

Other recipients include humanity and the chef José Andrésits World Central Kitchen has helped provide food to civilians in war zones and areas affected by natural disasters; British conservationist Jane Goodall and science teacher Bill Nye.

Former US Attorney General Robert F Kennedyformer Secretary of Defense Ash Carterhuman rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and former Governor of Michigan George W Romney you will receive a reward after death.

Established under former president John F Kennedy, the award is awarded at the president’s discretion on the advice of an external advisory panel.

Previous recipients of the award include the most decorated gymnast of all time Simone Biles, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh and Apple founder Steve Jobs.