Barack Obama to Present Presidential Medal of Freedom to Michael Jordan, Tom Hanks, Ellen DeGeneres and More

The White House recently announced the 21 names who will receive this year’s prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom — the honor is given to “individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.” Basketball legend Michael Jordan, iconic actor Tom Hanks and popular television show host Ellen DeGeneres are among those to be honored.

November 22 will be the day when the awards are presented and those wanting to see the occassion can stream it through www.whitehouse.gov/live. “The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not just our nation’s highest civilian honor – it’s a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better. From scientists, philanthropists, and public servants to activists, athletes, and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way,” President Obama said about the awards.

Below is the complete list of recipients:

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Elouise Cobell (posthumous)

Ellen DeGeneres

Robert De Niro

Richard Garwin

Bill and Melinda Gates

Frank Gehry

Margaret H. Hamilton

Tom Hanks

Grace Hopper (posthumous)

Michael Jordan

Maya Lin

Lorne Michaels

Newt Minow

Eduardo Padrón

Robert Redford

Diana Ross

Vin Scully

Bruce Springsteen

Cicely Tyson