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President Obama Announces Medal of Freedom Honorees

On November 17, 2010, President Barack Obama released the official list of recipients for the Presidential Medal of Freedom for that year. The announcement highlighted fifteen people whose lives shaped the moral, cultural, and historical direction of the country. Among those named were Maya Angelou, John Lewis, and Bill Russell. Each one represented a different pillar of American influence. Angelou brought truth and dignity through her writing. Lewis devoted his life to justice and nonviolent resistance, standing firm from Selma to Congress. Russell used his platform as an athlete and activist to challenge inequality while becoming one of the most decorated champions in sports history. The White House announcement recognized them as individuals who lived with purpose and courage. Their contributions helped shift the country toward a fuller understanding of leadership, creativity, and integrity. November 17 marked the moment when their impact was officially honored and placed on the national record. #MedalOfFreedom #PresidentObama #CivilRightsIcons #MayaAngelou #JohnLewis #BillRussell #BlackHistoryMoment #AmericanHistory #HistoricalRecognition #LegacyAndLeadership