- Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson recognized for leading the Jan. 6 investigation.
- Honorees include advocates for civil rights, marriage equality, and veterans’ welfare.
- Posthumous awards highlight contributions of historic figures in civil rights and justice.
President Joe Biden is awarding the Presidential Citizens Medal to 20 individuals for their extraordinary service to the nation, including Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson for their leadership in investigating the January 6 Capitol riot.
Among the honorees are advocates for marriage equality, pioneers in treating war injuries, and individuals who championed women’s rights and civil rights.
Celebrating Courage: Biden Awards Second Highest Civilian Honor
Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, key leaders of the bipartisan Jan. 6 committee, are receiving the Presidential Citizens Medal for their unwavering dedication to democratic integrity. Despite facing criticism from former President Donald Trump, their work in investigating the Capitol riot has been a beacon of accountability and transparency.
President Biden’s honorees include individuals who have made groundbreaking contributions to social and legal progress. Mary Bonauto and Evan Wolfson, pioneers in marriage equality, are being recognized for their tireless advocacy that transformed civil rights in America.
The list of recipients also highlights contributions to veterans’ welfare and healthcare innovation. Frank Butler, known for improving medical standards for war injuries, and Diane Carlson Evans, a Vietnam War nurse and advocate, have reshaped the care and recognition of service members.
Posthumous awards pay tribute to historical figures like Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi, who fought against the internment of Japanese Americans, and Louis Lorenzo Redding, a groundbreaking civil rights attorney. These stories of resilience and justice resonate strongly in today’s America.
This year’s Presidential Citizens Medal recipients showcase a profound legacy of courage, advocacy, and service, inspiring Americans to continue striving for equity and justice.
“The country is better because of their dedication and sacrifice,” President Biden remarked, summarizing the spirit of the Presidential Citizens Medal honorees.
