Sidney Poitier was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama yesterday, Wednesday Aug 12, 2009. Poitier, the first black man to win a Best Actor Oscar, was chosen for his contribution to acting and race relations.

This year’s awards were presented to “Agents of Change.” In presenting the medal, the President said of Potier:

“It’s been said that Sidney Poitier does not make movies, he makes milestones — milestones of artistic excellence, milestones of America’s progress.”

“Poitier,” the president added, “had not only entertained, but shifted racial attitudes, broadened hearts and brought Americans together.” Continuing, “[He] left an indelible mark on American culture” and “advanced the nation’s dialogue on race and respect. Rising from the tomato farms of the Bahamas, his talent led him to Broadway, Hollywood, and global acclaim. In front of black and white audiences struggling to right the nation’s moral compass, Sidney Poitier brought us the common tragedy of racism, the inspiring possibility of reconciliation, and the simple joys of everyday life.  Ultimately, the man would mirror the character, and both would advance the nation’s dialogue on race and respect.”

I am sure this award will be given pride of place, right between Sidney’s Oscar, and his Bale.