Amal and George Clooney have hosted the Albie Awards at the New York Public Library – but what are “The Albies” exactly, you might be wondering?
They’re the set of awards started by the famous couple in 2022 through their Clooney Foundation for Justice, to spotlight people around the world who put their lives at risk to defend justice and human rights. We’re talking journalists, activists, education and health campaigners, and more. The aim is to not only let us know about the important work these people are doing, but also to serve as a protective measure, letting their persecutors know the world is watching.
“For the third year in a row, The Albies continues to be the event that brings us together with CFJ’s friends and supporters to recognise and celebrate those who have put their lives on the line in their fearless fight for justice around the globe,” George and Amal said.
Who was honoured at the 2024 Albies?
Four people and one nonprofit were honoured at this year’s ceremony. They include:
- Memory Banda, a Malawian gender activist who advocates for girls’ rights to education and an end to child marriage;
- Luis Carlos Díaz, a journalist, cyberactivist, and human rights defender focused on issues in Venezuela;
- Nadia Murad, a human rights activist, dedicated to advocating for survivors of genocide and sexual violence;
- Dolores Huerta, a prominent American labor leader, civil rights activist and co-founder of the United Farms Workers’ Union;
- Women Wage Peace & Women of the Sun, a peace movement focused on Israel and Palestine, empowering women to seek resolutions.
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Former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as entertainers Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, and Jon Stewart presented this year’s honourees with their awards.
A number of other big names also attended the event including philanthropist Melinda French Gates, actors Busy Philipps and Shailene Woodley, makeup entrepreneur Charlotte Tilbury and former New Zealand Prime Minster Jacinda Ardern.
Why are they called The Albies?
The awards are named after anti-apartheid hero Albie Sachs who received the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.
(Feature Image Credit: Amal Clooney and George Clooney photo by by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic via Getty Images)
