On October 21, President Biden awarded the National Medal of Arts and the National Humanities Medal to 39 honorees, recognizing the contributions of various artists, directors, singers, and writers to American culture.
Among the recipients of the National Medal of Arts were renowned Oscar-winning director and producer Steven Spielberg, acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee, and documentarian Ken Burns, alongside influential figures like hip-hop pioneer Missy Elliott and actress Queen Latifah. In addition, prominent screenwriter Aaron Sorkin and presidential historian Jon Meacham were honored with the National Humanities Medal.
During the award ceremony held at the White House, Biden emphasized the significance of these awards, stating, “Above all, you are masters in your fields, and your efforts have made America a better place.” He also took the opportunity to support his vice president, Kamala Harris, remarking, “I know the women in this room have the ability to get things done.”
Biden encouraged the next generation by highlighting the achievements of the female award winners, asserting, “They prove that women can do anything men can do, and some women can even become President of the United States.” The audience erupted in applause.
The president remarked on the importance of this moment for American art and humanities, as he noted that “extremists are banning books, trying to erase history, and spreading misinformation.”
The National Endowment for the Arts oversees the National Medal of Arts, and other notable this year’s winners include Idina Menzel, the voice behind the hit animated film “Frozen,” Hollywood star and producer Eva Longoria, producer Bruce Cohen, and musician Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez.
The National Endowment for the Humanities is responsible for the National Humanities Medal. Additional recipients include the late poet laureate Joy Harjo, actor and literary activist LeVar Burton, cartoonist Roz Chast, philanthropist Wallis Annenberg, and Darren Walker.
