U2 named Ambassadors of Conscience

The members of U2 and their manager Paul McGuinness have been given the Ambassador Of Conscience Award by Amnesty International. Irene Khan, who's the Secretary General of the human-rights organization, said, "From Live Aid in 1985 and Amnesty International's 1986 Conspiracy Of Hope tour, through to Live 8 this past July, U2 have arguably done more than any other band to highlight the cause of global human rights in general and Amnesty International's work in particular. Their leadership in linking music to the struggle for human rights and human dignity worldwide has been ground-breaking and unwavering. They have inspired and empowered millions with their music and by speaking out on behalf of the poor, the powerless, and the oppressed."

The awards is given by Art For Amnesty, and it's founder, Bill Shipsey, said, "With songs like 'Pride (In The Name Of Love),' 'MLK,' 'Miss Sarajevo,' 'Mothers Of The Disappeared,' 'Walk On'...and of course the song that has become an anthem to Amnesty, 'One,' U2 has helped spread the human rights message of Amnesty International to a global audience." He added, "But the band is, and always has been, about much more than just music. Band members have used their music and celebrity to champion countless human rights causes. Through their more recent involvement with DATA and The One Campaign, they have brought the issues of debt, aid, and trade -- particularly as they affect Africa - to the world's attention. They have shown that it is not enough to leave it to the politicians and 'traditional' world leaders to change the world. They have empowered and inspired millions of people with their music, their example, and their action.'

The Ambassador Of Conscience Award "recognizes exceptional individual leadership and witness in the fight to protect and promote human rights."

U2 played on Monday, December 12th, at the Charlotte Bobcats Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. They'll wrap up their 2005 touring next Monday (December 19th) at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Oregon.
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