Former Burnaby resident Michael J. Fox has been recognized for his world-renowned advocacy for Parkinson's disease research and development.
Fox, born in Edmonton and moving to Burnaby with his family in 1971, was among 19 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom by U.S. President Joe Biden on Jan. 4.
Today, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 great leaders who have made America a better place. pic.twitter.com/d610LtMoes
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 4, 2025
The award, which the White House says is the highest civilian honour in the United States, is given to individuals that have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the U.S., world peace or other significant societal, public or private endeavours.
"President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else," said a news release announcing the recipients.
"These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world."
Other recipients included José Andrés, U2 frontman Bono, Ashton Baldwin Carter, Hillary Clinton, Tim Gill, Jane Goodall, Fannie Lou Hamer, Ervin "Magic" Johnson, Robert Francis Kennedy, Ralph Lauren, Lionel Messi, William Sanford Nye, George W. Romney, David M. Rubenstein, George Soros, George Stevens, Jr., Denzel Washington and Anna Wintour.
The Theatre at Burnaby South Secondary was renamed the Michael J. Fox Theatre in 1995 for recognition of Fox's achievements in the arts and commitment to the community.
