Wed 23 Nov 2016 In: International News View at Wayback View at NDHA
In an emotional presentation US President Barack Obama has presented lesbian actress, comedienne and TV talk show host Ellen DeGeneres with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The medal recognises exceptional contributions to the national interests of the USA, its culture and security. It is the US's highest civilian honour. DeGeneres was one of 21 recipients receiving the medal today, with Obama saying they "helped make me who I am." He said it is "easy to forget now, when we've come so far ... just how much courage was required for Ellen to come out on the most public of stages almost 20 years ago," The President and DeGeneres choked up as the medal citation was read out, highlighting how she had put her career on the line and carried the burden of the hopes of millions.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 23rd November 2016 - 9:11pm