President Biden has recently announced the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is awarded to civilians who have made significant contributions to the United States. This year, 19 recipients have been selected for their exceptional achievements. Amongst this cohort of notable figures includes Medgar Wiley Evers, who was posthumously honored for his dedicated efforts toward civil rights and racial equity in Mississippi after fighting in World War II. He was assassinated in 1963 by white supremacists. In the years since his death, his wife Myrlie Evers has continued to push forward for just causes furthering his legacy.
This highest honor encompasses prosperity, security and values for the nation, promoting world peace and global efforts. What makes this even more powerful is the wisdom of President Biden in working together to shape the world for a better tomorrow. We admire seeing Black individuals in leadership positions, consistently working hard and persevering to bring communities and services together. There are three exceptional Black individuals that we are truly impressed by because they continue to make great strides towards their goals and making the world a better place for our community.
Here are the three recipients who are receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom and making it happen.
James E. Clyburn
James, a retired educator and former U.S. Representative from South Carolina, played a key role in helping President Biden secure the 2020 nomination. He has transformed the nation and made the world a better place.
She is recognized for her efforts as both an educator and an activist in making Juneteenth a national and federal holiday in 2021, to celebrate the end of slavery. She has the nickname “the grandmother of Juneteenth.”
Clarence B. Jones
Clarence is a well-known name in civil rights activism, as he was a prominent lawyer who played a vital role in drafting Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to preserve Dr. King’s legacy and remained a vocal advocate against hate and racism.