By Dominique M. Carson
Recently, President Barack Obama honored 19 individuals with the 2014 Medal of Freedom Award at the White House East Room. Some of the honorees were Alvin Ailey, Stevie Wonder, Isabel Allende, Ethel Kennedy, and Marlo Thomas.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian award that rewards those for their "meritorious service" in politics, world peace, entertainment, literature, and social justice.
Obama shared his fondest remarks about each recipient when he said, "From activists who fought for change to artists who explored the furthest reaches of our imagination; from scientists who kept America on the cutting edge to public servants who help write new chapters in our American story, these citizens have made extraordinary contributions to our country and the world."
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was first launched in 1945 to recognize individuals who were prominent during the war. 18 years later, President John F. Kennedy reintroduced the award in 1963 to honor civilians during peacetime.
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