Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken received the Legion d’Honneur award in Paris on January 8, 2025. During the ceremony at the Elysee Palace, he reflected on his deep personal connection to France and expressed gratitude for receiving such an esteemed recognition.
Addressing President Emmanuel Macron and attendees, Blinken stated: "This is the honor of a lifetime to receive this award, surrounded by people I consider my extended family." He praised President Macron's leadership qualities, saying it made the occasion even more special.
Blinken reminisced about moving to Paris as a child with his mother Judith and stepfather Samuel Pisar. He shared anecdotes from his time growing up in France, including learning French culture through music and literature. "I learned by listening to Sardou, Clerc, Hardy...and reading Zola, Victor Hugo," he recounted.
Reflecting on his experiences in France during formative years, Blinken noted how they influenced his career path. "It was my first experience acting as a bridge between communities," he said. He emphasized that countries and cultures are more complex than they appear from afar.
Blinken also paid tribute to his stepfather Sam Pisar's legacy. Pisar survived the Holocaust and dedicated himself to promoting reconciliation between nations. His work inspired Blinken's diplomatic approach: “He believed there is no such thing as hereditary animosity."
Throughout his speech, Blinken highlighted shared values between France and the United States—liberty, equality, human rights—and acknowledged their ongoing challenges both internally and externally.
Concluding with aspirations for future collaboration between both nations' citizens beyond governmental roles, Blinken quoted Alexis de Tocqueville: “The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.”
As Secretary Blinken transitions into private life soon after this accolade, he remains committed to fostering democratic ideals among citizens worldwide.
