The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, speaker emerita of the US House, was honored with the overarching Freedom Medal for her lifetime of service to our nation. As the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House, she has inspired countless women and girls across the nation, and her legislative contributions have shaped the political landscape and left a lasting impact.

Tracie Hall, executive director, American Library Association, was honored for defending libraries, advocating for literacy, and working to preserve and expand equal access to information.

Dr. Walter Earl Fluker, Martin Luther King, Jr. professor emeritus of ethical leadership, Boston University and dean’s professor of spirituality, ethics, and leadership, Emory University, Candler School of Theology, was honored for carrying on the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Howard Thurman—from helping students navigate the ethical questions of today to being a thought leader for Black churches.

Ady Barkan, creator of the Fed Up campaign and founder & co-executive director of Be A Hero, was honored for his unapologetic work fighting for freedom from economic want and for a more just health-care system in the United States.

The Honorable Bennie Thompson, US House representative, was honored for his leadership skills and courage as chair of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol.