Pelosi Statement on Medal of Freedom Recipients

Washington, D.C. - Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today honoring the recipients of the 2010 Medal of Freedom:

"Today, the President bestowed the Medal of Freedom - our nation's highest civilian honor - on men and women who have helped shape our history and our culture.  These individuals hail from different backgrounds; their fields range from public service to civil rights, from the arts to athletics, from environmental activism to labor and business.  Yet they share a common commitment to bold leadership, principled action, and the common good.

"In particular, I recognize three recipients for their extraordinary achievements in the public sphere.  Our colleague, Congressman John Lewis, is the conscience of the Congress and a true hero of the civil rights movement; his life embodies the triumph of freedom.  Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, founder of VSA, carries forward her family's torch of service, offering children and adults with disabilities the freedom to celebrate their artistic talents.  John Sweeney has provided more than a strong voice for our middle class; he has fought for the freedom of our workers to organize, to support their families, and to earn a living wage.

"In their lifetimes of service, each of these individuals has played a central role in upholding the promise of a better future for all Americans.  To them, and to all of the recipients of the Medal of Freedom, I offer congratulations and gratitude."