Elton John has been selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rockefeller Foundation in recognition of his philanthropic work.
In addition to being one of the world’s most successful musicians, Elton is well known globally as a leading advocate and philanthropist on behalf of people with HIV/AIDS. In the early days of the AIDS crisis, he was one of the first to realize that it was necessary to de-stigmatize HIV/AIDS before governments and other donors would devote major resources to fighting the disease. His personal leadership and philanthropy over many years has led to progress in addressing discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, and provided major resources to treatment and a cure.
Dr. Judth Rodin, president of the foundation, said “At The Rockefeller Foundation, we are constantly searching for innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. As such, we are honored to recognize Sir Elton John for his unwavering commitment and contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS, and for the innovative work he has done not just targeting the disease, but also the stigma, discrimination, politics, and community-related concerns associated with it.”
The singer said “From the beginning, it has been my steadfast belief that we would not be able to treat or cure HIV/AIDS when people living with the disease or very vulnerable to it are shunned, hidden, or denied their human rights. It is an honor to receive this Award from The Rockefeller Foundation, an organization that has been at the forefront of leveraging innovation, in all its forms, to promote the well-being of humanity around the world.”
The honor will be given on October 30 at “A Celebration of American Philanthropy” in Washington.
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