Stevie Wonder Honored With Presidential ‘Medal of Freedom’
Two legends were presented with the highest civilian honor by President Barack Obama at the White House today (Nov. 24). One of which is an iconic musician, while the other a southeastern Michigan politician with an outstanding career.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was awarded to Stevie Wonder and John Dingell of Dearborn. The Saginaw-native musician may have lost his sight early on, but time and time again, he proved to be one of the most successful musical talents of all time to chart through the Motown label. In case you’re wondering, Obama recalled one of Stevie Wonder’s albums being the first album he ever purchased as youngster.
“Because of Stevie, all of us have been moved to a ‘Higher Ground,’” the president said, slyly referencing one of Stevie Wonder’s songs.
As for U.S. Rep. John Dingell, he was honored as Congress’ longest-serving member ever to serve at one time. He was also honored for being one of its most influential chairmen.
Posthumous awards will also honor six other individuals. Among them are civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner, who were killed in Mississippi in 1964. Others recognized were choreographer Alvin Ailey, Reps. Patsy Mink of Hawaii and Edward Roybal of California, who was the founder of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is reserved for individuals who have made “meritorious contributions” to U.S. security, world peace or cultural endeavors.
Watch the award presentations below, streamed live at 2:15 p.m. ET today.
(Photo Credit: Live Steam/UStream)
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