opens IMAGE file President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama hosted a reception for Julie Andrews and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at the White House on Sunday, June 5th, 2011. Later in the evening, Ms. Andrews and Mr. Abdul-Jabbar were awarded Lincoln Medals at a ceremony at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. The Lincoln Medal is awarded to those individuals who, through their careers and commitment to equality, exemplify the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln. The gala celebration began with a performance of “Lincoln’s Legacy and a New Era of Hope.” Mrs. Obama is honorary chair of the gala.
Kareem received his medal from Attorney General Eric Holder and Julie received hers from Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.