The UN Women for Peace Association’s annual awards luncheon held at the UN Nations Headquarters in the Delegates Dining Room, celebrated International Women’s Day and brought out superstar actresses Cate Blanchett and Debra Messing honoring some of today’s most courageous and accomplished people.
As has become the tradition, UN Women for Peace Association’s Chair Muna Rihani Al-Nasser and President Barbara Winston presented the awards during the ceremony. Each year, UN Women for Peace Association honors individuals who have made a difference in the lives of women and girls.
Chairman, Muna Rihani Al-Nasser, declared, “UN WOMEN FOR PEACE ASSOCIATION’S aim is the empowerment of the women and the elimination of violence against women and girls. It is estimated that as many as 2.5 million people are trafficked annually into situations including prostitution, forced labor, slavery or servitude; women and girls account for about 80% of the detected victims.”
Cate Blanchett introduced her friend Deborra-Lee Furness (Co-Founder, HOPELAND) and wife of movie star Hugh Jackman, with the Leadership Award.
“This extraordinary woman is a brilliant strategist, a natural bringer together of people and ideas, a problem solver, a do-er, and the most indefatigable optimist I’ve ever met. We need such optimism now, more than ever,” said Blanchett. “Where others would have long given up – deterred by legal loopholes, prejudice, fear and social and governmental inertia – this firebrand only strengthens her resolve, doubles her numbers and presses on – until she breaks through.”
Debra Messing dazzled in green and introduced Dayle Haddon (Founder& CEO, WomenOne), a recognized non-profit focused on increasing girls access to quality education globally.
Also receiving accolades was Hamilton creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda who received the Philanthropy Award, and had his mother Dr. Luz Towns-Miranda accept the award on his behalf.
Guests included: President of the General Assembly of the United Nations, Peter Thomson and his wife Marijcke Thomson, Martha Stewart, Miss Universe (Iris Mittenaere) and Miss USA (Deshauna Barber).
Pictured:
Messing, Haddon
Blanchett, Furness