President Obama is awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 16 people, including retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, actor Sidney Poitier and civil rights icon Rev. Joseph Lowery.
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“Each saw an imperfect world and set about improving it, often overcoming great obstacles along the way,” Obama said. “Their relentless devotion to breaking down barriers and lifting up their fellow citizens sets a standard to which we all should strive.”
President Harry S. Truman established the Medal of Freedom in 1945 to recognize civilians for their efforts during World War II. President John F. Kennedy reinstated the medal in 1963 to honor distinguished service.
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