5 Reasons Why Ellen DeGeneres Totally Deserves Her Presidential Medal of Freedom

The video of Ellen and President Obama will definitely make you tear up.

On Tuesday, President Barack Obama presented Ellen DeGeneres with a Presidential Medal of Freedom, honouring her extraordinary contributions to making the world a better place.

“In a career spanning three decades, Ellen DeGeneres has lifted our spirits and brought joy to our lives as a standup comic, actor and television star. In every role, she reminds to be kind to one another and to treat people as each of us wants to be treated,” said the Whitehouse aide who introduced her. “At a pivotal moment, her courage and candor helped changed the hearts and minds of millions of Americans, accelerating our nation’s constant drive towards equality and acceptance for all.”

“Again and again,” he continued. “Ellen DeGeneres has shown us that a single individual can make the world a more fun, more open, more loving place — so long as we just keep swimming.”

We hope Ellen knows how special she is! Here are five reasons why her presidential recognition is so well deserved. 

1. Because she never fails to put a smile on our face:

2. She encourages us to never give up:

3. Ellen inspires us to help those in need:

4. She only spreads love and positivity:

5. And, of course, because she loves us just as much as we love her:

Congratulations, Ellen!