Black and Honored: 2025 Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients
The Highest Civilian Honor
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the ultimate civilian flex, given to people who've made a big impact on culture, security, progress, or peace — whether in the U.S. or around the world.
On Jan. 4, President Biden handed out 2025 medals to 19 new recipients, including activist Fannie Lou Hamer, athlete and entrepreneur Magic Johnson, and actor Denzel Washington.
According to the White House, "President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world."
We couldn't agree more regarding this year's Black recipients whose work continues to impact civil rights, sports, entrepreneurship, and entertainment.
Fannie Lou Hamer
A fearless civil rights leader who fought for voting rights and justice in the deep South, Fannie Lou Hamer demanded change, even when it put her life on the line. Known for her bold spirit and iconic phrase, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired," she paved the way for Black empowerment and inspired generations to fight for freedom.
The Biden Administration credits Hamer with transforming "the struggle for racial justice in America. As a founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, she challenged the exclusion of Black voices in the political system and laid the groundwork for the 1965 Voting Rights Act."
Earvin "Magic" Johnson
A GOAT both on and off the basketball court, Magic Johnson has consistently been a prolific example of winning and giving back.
The Biden Administration uplifted his legacy as "a legendary retired basketball player who led the Los Angeles Lakers to five championships. Off the court, he is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation."
Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington continues to be the blueprint for Black excellence in Hollywood, serving iconic roles with unmatched talent. From "Glory" to "Training Day," he's not just an actor — he's a legend who keeps inspiring the culture on-screen and off. He has served as national spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for more than 25 years.
His Medal of Freedom joins the actor-director-producer's two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and the 2016 Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award.
Watch Now: Medal of Freedom Ceremony
