Gabby Giffords Statement on Today’s Presidential Medal of Freedom Ceremony
Washington, DC — Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords issued the following statement as she prepares to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden, along with 16 other individuals. This tremendous honor comes on the heels of the first bipartisan gun safety legislation to be signed into law in nearly 30 years and one week before the nationwide release of Gabby Giffords Won’t Back Down, a documentary by the filmmakers of RBG that chronicles Gabby’s inspiring recovery story and gun safety advocacy.
Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords:
“To be recognized for the public service that I have oriented my life around by President Biden, whose own example of finding purpose in pain has been such a guiding light for me, is a blessing and a privilege. The fight to prevent gun violence is a team effort, one in which I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with so many other survivors, responsible gun owners, and gun safety advocates. In the wake of the president signing lifesaving gun safety legislation into law—the first such legislation passed by Congress in nearly 30 years—I am reinvigorated to keep up this fight for the next 30 years, until Americans no longer live in fear of gun violence.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to receive this award alongside such a truly inspiring and accomplished group of individuals. I have so much respect for Simone Biles and Megan Rapinoe, who inspire all women to live with courage, speak their truth, and advocate for justice and equality. I’ve done my very best to live my life with courage, and there is no shortage of it among today’s honorees, including the ones who are no longer with us. My friend, the late Senator John McCain, epitomized courage and loved Arizona just as much as I do. I’m so grateful that our paths crossed in service of our state and of our country.
“Thank you again, Mr. President, for this honor, and thank you to my fellow Medal of Freedom recipients for blazing such a bright path forward.”
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