Look To The Stars News: Bono

Idol Gives Back Is Back!

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:00:00 -0000

After a one year hiatus, Idol Gives Back is set to rock for charity once again.

The American Idol special will air April 21, 2010, and will benefit national and international charities including Malaria No More, Save the Children and the United Nations Foundation.

“I am very pleased to announce that we will be doing our third Idol Gives Back on April 21, 2010,” said Simon Fuller, Idol creator and CEO of 19 Entertainment. “This is our opportunity to reach out and support the people of America and around the world who need our compassion and generosity to improve or even save their lives. America will undoubtedly prove once again what a remarkable and generous nation it is. For American Idol to be able to facilitate this kind of initiative makes me very proud.”

“Idol Gives Back” has raised over $140 million since its inception in 2007. The event regularly attracts appearances by major stars such as Bono, Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon and many others – including 2009 Nobel Peace Prize winner Barack Obama. The show last aired in 2008.

Bono And Friends Rock Carnegie Hall For Charity

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

U2’s Bono and The Edge led an assortment of stars – including Courtney Love, Lou Reed, Scarlett Johansson, Rufus Wainwright and Lady GaGa at the massive (RED)NIGHTS charity concert in New York on Sunday, October 4.

Held at Carnegie Hall, the concert will benefit Bono’s (RED) charity to eliminate AIDS in Africa, and follows the successful (RED)NIGHTS concerts that were held earlier this year, featuring Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, The Veronicas and many others.

The musicians reportedly took part in some massive jam sessions during the concert, playing David Bowie’s Jean Genie and The Velvet Underground’s ‘Sweet Jane’.

Jessica Alba Blogs For 1GOAL

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Actress Jessica Alba was at the Clinton Global Initiative last week to publicize the 1GOAL campaign, which aims to ensure that the legacy of the 2010 Football World Cup will provide universal access to education for all children. And now she has blogged about her support.

“President Clinton convened his Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting last week in New York City and I was fortunate to attend,” she wrote in the Huffington Post. “While there, I received a first class education, listening as some of the world’s brightest and most committed people argued and agreed on new ways to solve the most pressing problems, from global education to climate change. I spoke with activists, policy experts, generals, CEOs and everyday people working tirelessly at non-profits and NGOs in countries around the world. From them, I learned about ways we can all assist in reducing the obstacles to creating systemic change.

“I was part of a CGI commitment with 1GOAL: Education for All to talk about the 75 million children denied access to education around the world today. If you’re keeping count, that’s as if every school in the U.S. and Europe combined decided one day to close their doors. Joining Global Co-Chair Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan, ONE co-founder Bono, FIFA and private sector leaders, I signed up to be US Co-Chair of 1GOAL and help work for a breakthrough on global education centered around the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

“The 2010 World Cup will be the first hosted by Africa, and 1GOAL views the world’s biggest sporting event as an opportune platform to persuade the millions of fans who peacefully come together to share the love of soccer to also unite on educating the world’s children. Our goal is to sign up 30 million World Cup supporters to call on our leaders to make education for all children a priority and reality. Name by name, we believe we can bring attention to global education disparities and make change a reality.”

“My teachers this past week were the very best in their respective fields. I was humbled by the experience, but more importantly, I walked away optimistic about the tangible results the 1GOAL commitment will generate. I’m thankful to President Clinton, Queen Rania, Bono and the rest of the cultural influencers and educators who took the time out of their busy schedules to engage in such a productive forum. I look forward to attending next year’s CGI and giving a report there on the impact of 1GOAL.”

To find out how you can join Jessica Alba and Bono at 1GOAL, visit the official website . To read Jessica’s full blog, click here

Stars Have 1GOAL In Mind At Clinton Global Initiative

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Actor Brad Pitt was honored at the Clinton Global Initiative on Thursday for his humanitarian work in helping rebuild New Orleans.

Former President Bill Clinton presented Pitt with a plaque from the U.S. Green Building Council which said the actor and his Make It Right Foundation had created the “largest and greenest single-family community in the world.”

‘Make It Right’ has exceeded my expectations," said Pitt. "Our criteria from the beginning were at odds, to say the least. We demanded that these homes be sustainable, that they have aesthetic qualities … that they be storm resilient and take safety in mind of the families who live there and that they would be affordable.

“If we had not been so blissfully naive to the potential, we would not be experiencing what we are seeing today and that is the unquantifiable joy of families returning home to the 9th Ward and returning home to something that was better than before. What the team has done here is not so exceptional. All we did was put the right people together and answer the problems as they came along and that is why we’re here today.”

The Clinton Global Initiative attracted a number of high-profile figures this year. Queen Rania Al Abdullah spoke of the need for education, stating that it is an issue many politicians jump on when running for office, but also one they mysteriously forget about once voted into power.

“The benefits of education sometimes don’t fit in with the political cycle because you reap the benefits way down the line,” she said. “What we need to do is realize that sense of urgency when it comes to education, because education is a matter of life and death.”

She also emphasized the importance of the quality of education, saying that there hasn’t been enough focus in the Middle East on teaching young people the skills to get them through life.

“Take young people who are opportunity starved, and there is political conflict around them, and that makes a very dangerous social mix. As you all know, what happens in the Middle East, does not stay in the Middle East. Critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, those kinds of skills are extremely important to empower our young people.”

Rock star Bono and actress Jessica Alba also attended, throwing their support behind 1GOAL, an initiative committed to ensuring that the legacy of the 2010 Football World Cup will provide universal access to education for all children. Clinton told the audience “this is a staggering opportunity” to make a big difference for girls and boys around the world.

To find out more about the 1GOAL campaign, click here.

Iconic Stars Reveal Inspirations For Charity Calendar

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:30:00 -0000

British charity CLIC Sargent is to benefit from sales of a new calendar featuring the inspiration selections of Bob Dylan, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Bono and other icons for the music world.

Music and entertainment specialist HMV is to mark the third anniversary of its acclaimed my inspiration campaign by featuring memorable highlights in a charity calendar for 2009/2010.

These include the my inspiration selections of Bob Dylan – who selected Scottish poet, Robert Burns; Bono and Paul McCartney, who, in turn, cite Bob Dylan as theirs; Paul Weller, who was first inspired by the songwriting of Lennon and McCartney; Bruce Springsteen, who was influenced by Blues performer Woodie Guthrie; and Deborah Harry, who found inspiration in the songs of Leonard Cohen.

My inspiration invites iconic and exciting new artists to share with their fans the song lyric or lines of verse that have inspired them in their life and in their work. The campaign began in September 2006, when David Bowie selected Syd Barrett’s Gigolo Aunt as his personal inspiration. Since that time well over 150 artists have taken part, ranging from Timbaland to the first lady of France, Carla Bruni, as well as new artists such as Lady Gaga and La Roux.

A key part of the calendar are the iconic black & white portraits of the participating artists taken by photographers who are themselves celebrated, such as Anton Corbijn, Fiona Freund, Dean Chalkley, Lawrence Watson, Adrian Boot and Frank Ockenfels 3 – making it a must not just for music fans and collectors, but for anyone with an appreciation of rock photography.

The A3-sized calendar comes with a foreword from Q Editor-in-Chief Paul Rees, and offers the added bonus of a full eighteen months worth of artist inspiration selections, starting from August 2009 with The Edge’s selection, covering all of 2010 and then ending in January 2011 with Metallica’s choice of their inspiration.

Click here to order.

U2 To Turn The Night RED For Charity

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

U2 will join a host of performers including Scarlett Johansson, Courtney Love, Maria McKee, Shane MacGowan, Martha Wainwright, Rufus Wainwright plus other special guests for a special concert to benefit Bono’s (RED) on October 4.

The concert follows the successful (RED)NIGHTS concerts that were held earlier this year, featuring Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, The Veronicas and many others.

The concert will take place at New York’s legendary Carnegie Hall and, as with all (RED)NIGHTS shows, a portion of the proceeds from the concert goes directly to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Tickets are available at CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800, www.carnegiehall.com and the box office.

Bono Pays Tribute To Aung San Suu Kyi

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

U2 singer Bono included a special tribute to imprisoned Burmese pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi during a concert at Wembley during the weekend.

“An extraordinary woman has spent 20 years under house arrest,“ the singer told the 88,000 strong crowd. “Her only crime is if she had run for election she would won have that election. Her name is Aung San Suu Kyi. I send a prayer from London to Burma for her safety.”

The band then encouraged the crowd to wear masks of the pro-democracy leader as they launched into ‘Walk On’ – a song they wrote for her – while volunteers marched onstage.

Aung San Suu Kyi – who is currently under house arrest – had her sentence extended last week.

Eunice Shriver's Charity Legacy

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Eunice Shriver – founder of the Special Olympics – has died at the age of 88.

The fifth of nine children and sister of John F Kennedy, Shriver led a life of service to the community that she handed down to her children. Her daughter, Maria Shriver, is the First Lady of California and is married to Arnold Schwarzenegger. She runs the annual Women’s Conference in California. Her son, Bobby Shriver, is well known for co-founding the organizations DATA (Debt AIDS Trade Africa), the ONE Campaign and (RED) with U2 lead singer Bono. Her other sons are also leaders in philanthropy: Timothy Shriver is the Chairman and CEO of the Special Olympics; Mark Shriver is the Vice-President and Managing Director of U.S. Programs for Save the Children; and Anthony Shriver is the founder of Best Buddies International.

Awarded the US Medal of Freedom in 1984, Eunice Shriver was a founder of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Center for Community of Caring in the 1960s. But it was her work with the Special Olympics for which she will be remembered. Her work with the disabled started early – In 1962, she started a day camp, known as Camp Shriver, for children with intellectual disabilities at her home in Potomac, Maryland. From there, she promoted the concept of competition opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. Camp Shriver became an annual event, and the Kennedy Foundation (of which Shriver was Executive Vice President) regularly gave grants to universities, recreation departments and community centers to hold similar camps. In 1968, Shriver was approached to help fund a huge Olympic-style athletic competition for over 1000 people with special needs. The Special Olympics were born, and today it involves over 2.5 million in 180 countries.

Her family released the following thoughts reflecting on her life:

“Inspired by her love of God, her devotion to her family, and her relentless belief in the dignity and worth of every human life, she worked without ceasing — searching, pushing, demanding, hoping for change. She was a living prayer, a living advocate, a living center of power. She set out to change the world and to change us, and she did that and more.

“She founded the movement that became Special Olympics, the largest movement for acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities in the history of the world. Her work transformed the lives of hundreds of millions of people across the globe, and they in turn are her living legacy. We have always been honored to share our mother with people of good will the world over who believe, as she did, that there is no limit to the human spirit. At this time of loss, we feel overwhelmed by the gifts of prayer and support poured out to us from so many who loved her.

“We are together in our belief that she is now in heaven, rejoicing with her family, enjoying the fruits of her faith, and still urging us onward to the challenges ahead. Her love will inspire us to faith and service always.“

Bono Talks World Hunger In Amsterdam

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:30:00 -0000

U2 singer Bono recently took time out from his current world tour to get up-to-date on global hunger by meeting with World Food Programme (WFP) head, Josette Sheeran, in Amsterdam.

During their meeting, Sheeran gave the singer one of the distinctive red cups which symbolize WFP’s ‘Fill the Cup’ campaign to raise funds to help the 66 million children in the world who go to school hungry.

Numbers Rising

Bono noted that the number of hungry people in the world is “rising fast” and expressed admiration for WFP’s work providing free meals to more than 20 million children in school every year.

Sheeran and Peter Bakker, head of WFP’s corporate partner TNT, met Bono backstage at Amsterdam’s ArenA stadium, where U2 played the ninth show in their current European tour to tens of thousands of fans.

When Bono asked about WFP’s work in Eastern Congo, Sheeran explained how the agency buys food from small farmers in that country to give to people displaced by conflict, thus boosting the local economy as well as responding to urgent hunger needs.

Activism for Africa

Bono is widely known for his activism in seeking solutions to the problems afflicting Africa. He co-founded DATA ,an NGO aimed at eliminating third world debt, and the ONE Campaign, which aims to increase US funding for international aid programs.

He has organized and played in several benefit concerts and has often met with influential politicians as part of his efforts to drum up support for development causes.

Katy Perry Rocks For Bono's AIDS Concerts

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Katy Perry rocked the Hammersmith Ballroom in New York on Tuesday, July 28, as part of the (RED)Nights concert series.

(RED)NIGHTS consists of 26 incredible shows featuring Fall Out Boy, The Veronicas, O.A.R., Katy Perry, Gomez and many more in venues across the US. The shows benefit Bono’s AIDS initiative Product RED, and kicked off in June.

Katy Perry’s show attracted a host of famous faces in the audience, including Rihanna and Donald Trump.

To find out when the next shows are or to watch footage from Tuesday’s concert, click here#.

Bono Writes About Obama's Visit To Ghana

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

ONE Campaign co-founder Bono put pen to paper for the New York Times last week about President Obama’s historic visit to Ghana during the weekend.

In the column, the U2 singer wrote about the relationship between the U.S. and Africa and about how countries like Ghana are challenging old stereotypes about Africa.

“No one’s leaked me a copy of the president’s speech in Ghana, but it’s pretty clear he’s going to focus not on the problems that afflict the continent but on the opportunities of an Africa on the rise,“ wrote Bono in the piece titled Rebranding Africa, published prior to Obama’s visit. "If that’s what he does, the biggest cheers will come from members of the growing African middle class, who are fed up with being patronized and hearing the song of their majestic continent in a minor key.

“I’ve played that tune. I’ve talked of tragedy, of emergency. And it is an emergency when almost 2,000 children in Africa a day die of a mosquito bite; this kind of hemorrhaging of human capital is not something we can accept as normal.

“But as the example of Ghana makes clear, that’s only one chord. Amid poverty and disease are opportunities for investment and growth — investment and growth that won’t eliminate overnight the need for assistance, much as we and Africans yearn for it to end, but that in time can build roads, schools and power grids and propel commerce to the point where aid is replaced by trade pacts, business deals and home-grown income.“

The full column can be read here.

Annual Women's Conference To Attract Big Names

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Maria Shriver will once again host the annual Women’s Conference in October, and tickets go on sale on July 13.

The first Women’s Conference – formerly known as the California Governor and First Lady’s Conference on Women – was held over twenty years ago, but it has been under the leadership of First Lady Shriver and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger that the event has become the premier event in empowering and inspiring women.

“I am honored to again be hosting what has become the nation’s premier forum for women, where the world’s greatest hearts and minds convene every year to empower women to find a common purpose, be united by a shared conversation, and see themselves as a collective WE,” said Shriver. “This year, I am urging women to take time to explore their deepest hopes and aspirations, and I hope they leave the conference with a better sense of just who they want to be — and the knowledge of how to get there.”

This year’s event is expected to feature a plethora of newsmakers and world opinion leaders who will endeavor to empower and motivate women to pursue a lifelong journey of self discovery. Last year’s event included appearances by Lance Armstrong, Bono, Warren Buffett, Sally Field, Michael J. Fox, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, Jenny McCarthy, Russell Simmons and a special performance by Bonnie Raitt. This year will see Cindy McCain, Elizabeth Edwards, Katie Couric, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, actress Kelly Preston, Caroline Kennedy, Alicia Keys, photographer Annie Leibovitz and racing driver Danica Patrick among the featured speakers.

To find out more about the event – to be held on October 26 and 27 at the Long Beach Convention Center – visit the official website.

Birthday Wishes For Aung San Suu Kyi

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

People from all over the world have put down 64 words on a new website in support of Aung San Suu Kyi for her 64th birthday .

Burma’s junta has held the pro-democracy leader under house arrest for over half of the past two decades and, charged in May for breaking the terms of her house arrest, Suu Kyi is now facing trial.

Outraged by the Burmese military’s actions, people are using the 64 for Aung San Suu Kyi website as a protest platform.

Paul McCartney wrote, “Aung San Suu Kyi is an inspiration to her country and the rest of the world. I truly admire her infallible resolve and her determination to stand up for what she believes in. It is vital that Aung San Suu Kyi is released so that she can govern the people who elected her and give Burma back the freedom we all take for granted.”

Bono and U2 posted something more poetic: “Packing a suitcase for a place none of us has been/A place that has to be believed to be seen/You could have flown away/A singing bird in an open cage/Who will only fly, fly for freedom/Walk on, walk on/What you’ve got they can’t deny it/Can’t sell it, can’t buy it/Walk on, walk on/Stay safe tonight.”

Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson, had this to say: “Our fellow Elder, Aung San Suu Kyi, is the symbol of a more hopeful, tolerant and peaceful Burma. We’re profoundly troubled by her illegal incarceration and call on world leaders, and especially Asian members, to do everything in their power to secure her release along with all other political prisoners. We hope to embrace our dear sister in person on her 64th birthday.”

Suu Kyi’s birthday has come and gone. She’s still in jail.

New York To Host First Mandela Day Concert

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:01:00 -0000

New York takes world center-stage next month when the city hosts the inaugural ‘Mandela Day.’

Centered around a massive music headliner concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Nelson Mandela’s 91st birthday, July 18, the event is designed as a call around the world for people to honor Nelson Mandela’s inspiration and values, and observe the day annually as a celebration, not as a holiday, but as a day to opt in.

Joining Dave Stewart for this concert celebration will be Aretha Franklin, Wyclef Jean, Queen Latifah, Josh Groban, TLC, Cyndi Lauper and Jesse McCartney, sharing the stage and performances with Angélique Kidjo, Baaba Maal, the Soweto Gospel Choir, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Chris Chameleon, Freshlyground, Emmanuel Jal, Loyiso, Sipho Mabuse, Vusi Mahlasela, Thandiswa Mazwai, Suzanna Owiyo and many more.

Further invited guests will include France’s First Lady, Carla Bruni making a rare concert appearance, as well as Italy’s Zucchero, a 46664 ambassador artist who has given support at each of the prior 46664 concerts. Adding to the star value of the day, Hollywood legends and 46664 supporters Forest Whitaker, Sharon Stone, Susan Sarandon and many others have all committed to attend.

President Bill Clinton, who will host a fundraiser dinner with Mr. Mandela’s wife Graca Machel at New York’s Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall earlier in the week on July 15 said, “More than any other human being, Madiba has been the great inspiration for the life I lead and the work I do, especially in the area of HIV/AIDS. The philosophy of my Clinton Global Initiative – which has inspired 1,400 commitments improving 200 million lives in more than 150 countries – was built on his enduring example that the power of public good does not require public office, just a well-placed heart and a determined mind. In return for everything Madiba has taught us, we each owe it to him to support his work and legacy by doing and living our own as best we can, not just on this day, but throughout our entire lives.”

“The City of New York is honored to host the inaugural Mandela Day,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "Nelson Mandela has spent a lifetime fighting injustice and it is fitting to set aside a day each year to celebrate and recognize his legacy. I am especially pleased that service is playing such a large part in Mandela Day and encourage all New Yorkers recognize this day as a chance to give back to their communities.”

As Robert DeNiro said, “When Nelson Mandela speaks we all must listen.”

Tim Massey, International Director of 46664, said, “Mandela Day is about creating a movement for positive change and establishing one day to reflect upon, celebrate and make manifest the values that guide Nelson Mandela.”

Adding his voice of support, 46664 founding ambassador, Queen’s Brian May said, “It is Nelson Mandela’s ability to forgive that is an inspiration to us all. If Mandela Day can help the world to reconcile its differences then it will have succeeded in its purpose.”

Raising support from friends in the musical community, including Queen’s Brian May and Roger Taylor and Bono, Dave Stewart helped launch the 46664 global campaign which has since been carried across three continents. A series of historical concerts have taken place in South Africa, Spain, Norway, and most recently in the UK, with last year’s massive outdoor concert in Hyde Park which celebrated Mr. Mandela’s 90th birthday, playing to televised audiences that can be counted in the billions.

To date, the 46664 campaign has raised millions of dollars which have been applied to supporting projects in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa where current needs are deemed greatest, particularly in assisting those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.

New York’s concert for Mr. Mandela will not only further spread the message of 46664 but aims to have a longer lasting purpose – to mark a day in each year as one of which we collectively reflect on Nelson Mandela’s inspiration and guidance and individually strive to make our own contribution.

Many of 46664’s ambassadors will form part of the concert bringing together leading U.S. artists with many of Africa’s foremost performers for Mandela Day, a celebration for Mr. Mandela’s 91st birthday which will be seen as a meeting in music between the U.S. and Africa in a concert for the world. Further artists will be joining the growing line-up and can be expected to be announced in the lead up to the concert.

The concert is the culmination of a week-long series of events in New York City in celebration of the first-ever Mandela Day. The activities include a Ralph Applebaum designed exhibition of Mr. Mandela’s life and the work of his many 46664 ambassadors, as well as the gala fundraising dinner, both at Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall.

Mr. Mandela has been making an imprint on the world for 67 years since he actively became involved in campaigning for the human rights of every South African and now ‘Mandela Day’ calls upon each of us to give 67 minutes of our time to helping others, with the idea that each individual has the ability to make an imprint and make the world a better place.

Drawing its numeric title from Mr. Mandela’s Robben Island prison number (prisoner 466/incarcerated in 1964), 46664 was founded in 2002 when Mr. Mandela gave over the number, under which he served 17 of his 27 years incarceration, to Eurythmics’ founder Dave Stewart, to use call attention to finding solutions to critical social issues such as HIV/AIDS and the social injustices that impact the disease such as poverty, gender inequality and the lack of education.

46664 will also be working with partner organizations, other city authorities and community associations and volunteers across the globe to create a worldwide series of Mandela Day events to honor Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy.

‘46664 – Mandela Day Celebration’ Madison Square Garden concert tickets prices range from $50-$350, with VIP packages at $1,000 and up. All tickets are available beginning Friday, June 5, 9am EST at http://www.ticketmaster.com, livenation.com, thegarden.com and charge by phone: 800-745-3000 For VIP packages visit ticketmaster.com.

(RED)NIGHTS To Rock For AIDS In Africa

Tue, 19 May 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Bono’s AIDS initiative Product RED has announced an amazing new concert series to raise money and awareness for the deadly disease in Africa.

(RED)NIGHTS consists of 26 incredible shows featuring Fall Out Boy, The Veronicas, O.A.R., Katy Perry, Gomez and many more in venues across the US.

“If bringing awareness to what (RED) is doing helps one person receive antiretroviral treatment and live a healthy life we have accomplished our goal,” said Marc Roberge of O.A.R.

The concerts kick off in June. For more information and tickets, visit the (RED)NIGHTS official website.

George Clooney Makes Statement Against Imprisonment Of Nobel Prize Winner

Mon, 18 May 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

George Clooney joined Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and many others on Friday in calling for the immediate release from prison of Myanmar’s opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Along with Bono, Madonna, Steven Spielberg, Nobel Laureates professor Elie Wiesel and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former US secretary of state Madeleine Albright and US Senator John McCain, the group released a statement protesting about the fact that Aung San Suu Kyi – who has been under house arrest for 19 years – has now been moved to a prison facility.

The only Nobel Peace Prize recipient currently imprisoned, and leader of the National League for Democracy in Burma, Suu Kyi is a noted prisoner of conscience and advocate of nonviolent resistance.

“Yesterday Suu Kyi was taken to Burma’s Insein prison to face criminal charges as part of a concerted plan to deny her freedom,“ said the statement. “We must not stand by as she is silenced once again. Now is the time for the United Nations and the entire international community to speak clearly, and with one voice: Free Aung San Suu Kyi.”

Aung San Suu Kyi is a remarkable woman – immortalized in the U2 song “Walk On” and the only Nobel Peace Prize winner kept imprisoned anywhere in the world – her crime was her desire to see her people free.

Other stars to sign their name to the statement included Drew Barrymore, Sandra Bullock, Daniel Craig, Matthew Broderick, Scarlett Johansson, Nicole Kidman, Ashton Kutcher, Meg Ryan and many more.

To read more about Aung San Suu Kyi’s plight, click here or visit the Not On Our Watch website.

Bono To Play Charity Dominoes At Cannes

Fri, 15 May 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

U2 singer Bono is to co-host a charity event with a difference at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival on May 18.

Bono will join Penelope Cruz and director Pedro Almodovar at the Hollywood Domino tables to benefit The Global Fund, which raises cash to further AIDS research. Along with Charlize Theron, Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore, the stars will take part in a game that has taken Hollywood by storm.

Hollywood Domino is a new take on a very old game originally invented in China over 400 years ago. The new version was developed after two young entrepreneurs – Inge Theron and Daya Fernandez – met in LA during the Oscars. It was not long before a select group of celebrity friends including Salma Hayek, Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher caught onto the trend and began to meet regularly to play.

“Beating the credit crunch has never been so much fun,“ said Inge Theron. “Staying in has definitely become the new going out. ‘Hollywood Domino’ is a fun and exciting parlour game that you cannot help being absorbed by. It is strategic and highly addictive, and brings the glamour of the Hollywood Hills into your living room.”

The game is available for purchase from Amazon.com, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us, and other selected retailers.

Bono Questions George Clooney On Darfur

Wed, 06 May 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

Rocker Bono interviewed George Clooney last week on CNN and discussed, among other things, the actor’s role as activist and the problems facing Darfur.

Although one might wonder what qualified the singer to conduct the interview, Bono’s long-time experience as an activist brought much insight into the conversation.

During the discussion Clooney noted that, because he is not a politician, his hands are less tied to say and do what he wants. Bono, equally unrestrained, asked: “What went through your mind the first time you saw the squandering of human life that’s an everyday experience in Darfur and Sudan or in Chad? You’ve seen life slip away. Were you angry, were you upset, were you embarrassed because the West looks liked it’s turning its back on another genocide?”

Clooney recalled how shocking it was to find such a completely different world only a plane flight away, “where the average life expectancy is 38 years old. Well that’s insane to me, coming from a place where the average age is 80. And it’s not just disease that’s killing them. It’s murder and rape and genocide.

“First you’re really angry and you want a bunch of planes that say UN on them to come in with bombs and just take out all the bad guys. That’s the first reaction you have. And then you go through these phases of trying to figure out who are the bad guys. Why are they the bad guys? …There has to be a reason why [they’re] doing these things. And you find that it’s almost always oil. Strangely. It’s oil in the Sudan for the most part.

“…It comes down to those sort of issues where you think the people who need to take the lead have no vested interest in taking the lead. China needs to take the lead. They’re the ones who are taking oil out. But they need oil. Badly. So, there’s no great interest in it being settled. You walk out of there with them saying all of the important first steps that are needed. But they’re not really doing any of them. There is no great urgency. And unfortunately, there is no reason for it to stop.”

The pair also discussed diplomacy, politics, strategies and the effects that outside influence might have in Darfur. Actions taken, like the International Criminal Court indicting the president of Sudan, don’t always have universal approval.

Clooney says, “You could ask anyone there, a father of six, and three have been killed and three of them are alive and you ask, ‘Do you want to avenge those three kids’ lives or do you want to save those three kids’ lives?’ They’ll take saving – safety first. …[Yet] at some point someone has to be held responsible.”

You can find the full interview under Entertainment at the CNN website.

The Big Bid Raises Cash For Charities

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Big Bid – one of the biggest celebrity charity auctions to be held in 2009 – is on right now.

For the entire month of May, items from stars such as Bono, Kylie Minogue, Robbie Williams, Lewis Hamilton, Ricky Gervais, Cliff Richard, Girls Aloud, Eric Clapton, McFly, Pierce Brosnan, Michael Schumacher, Lulu and many more.

The Big Bid kicked off on May 4 with an event that benefited the Mildmay HIV+AIDS Charity based in East London, in which someone paid £4,200 for the chance to meet Sir Cliff Richard. Other charities that will benefit from the auction include Help for Heroes, Amazing Daisy, CLIC Sargent and more.

To find out more about the auction and start bidding, visit the official Big Bid website.

Joss Stone Gets Rolling For Peace Day

Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger is set to record a song with soul singer Joss Stone for charity.

The pair first recorded together in 2004 on a track called Lonely Without You, for Jude Law’s movie remake Alfie. They are now set to contribute another song to an album being released to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day of Peace on 21 September.

“Joss and Mick hit it off when they worked with producer Dave Stewart on the Alfie soundtrack,“ a source told Britain’s The Sun newspaper. “So they were hoping to collaborate again. When this project was suggested they were keen to get on board, especially considering the glittering cast of other musicians involved.”

Bono, Nas and others are also expected to take part.

The United Nations’ International Day of Peace – marked every year on September 21 – is a global holiday when individuals, communities, nations and governments highlight efforts to end conflict and promote peace. Established by U.N. resolution in 1982, “Peace Day” has grown to include millions of people around the world who participate in all kinds of events, large and small. Information about Peace Day can be found at the official website.

U2's Guitarist Becomes Charity Ambassador

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

U2 guitarist The Edge has been made a Mencap ambassador.

The rocker has been a longtime supporter of the charity, which works with people who suffer from learning disabilities. In 2007, he played a surprise acoustic gig with Bono at the charity’s annual Little Noise Sessions, and he joins stars such as comedian Mathew Horne, Christopher Eccleston, investigative journalist Donal MacIntyre, actress Kellie Shirley, Newcastle-born actress and TV presenter Donna Air, Paula Sage – who became an ambassador after she won a Bafta award for her role in the film Afterlife – actor and singer Will Young, and Lisa Scott Lee as an ambassador.

“Not many people know what a learning disability is, or the challenges people with a learning disability face,” said The Edge. “I’ve seen how much work goes into Mencap and want to continue to see it flourish.”

The Edge was invited to become an ambassador by his cousin, Ciara Evans, who works with Mencap’s campaigns and celebrity teams.

“My learning disability has not stopped me from achieving my goals or getting a job, but others like me can find it hard to get paid work," she said. "I hope that The Edge’s support will help create more opportunities for people with a learning disability.”

Damien Hirst Artworks Sold For Charity

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Twenty-eight paintings and artworks, including items donated by British artist Damien Hirst, went under the hammer for charity last week.

The auction in Paris made over US$6 million for AVEC – or Association pour la Vie et l’Espoir contre le Cancer (Association for Life and Hope Against Cancer) – a French cancer research organization.

Seventy-six percent of buyers were European; the rest were from the United States. No reserves were set on the artworks, which meant the final profits were over $1 million higher than expected.

“The market is not so high,” said Florence de Botton, Christie’s head of contemporary art in Paris. “This was a beautiful gift from everyone.”

Other artists to have work featured in the auction included Richard Serra and Jeff Koons.

Damien Hirst is well known for donating works to charity. In January he donated a painting to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, and in 2008 he helped raise over $40 million for Bono’s (RED) in a Valentine’s Day art auction.

Starbucks Partners With Bono's (Product) RED

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Next time you grab your Starbucks coffee, you could be helping the millions of AIDS sufferers in Africa.

The coffee giant has partnered with Bono’s Product (RED) to offer customers the opportunity to make their purchase at Starbucks stores with the new (STARBUCKS) RED Card, a stored value Card that can be given as a gift or purchased for personal use at participating stores in the U.S. and Canada. And the really great thing is, every time a customer uses this Card to make a purchase at Starbucks, five cents will go directly to the Global Fund to help save lives in Africa.

The initiative builds on the partnership reported by Look To The Stars last October that saw Starbucks create three exclusive new drinks to raise money for (RED).

Starbucks partnership with (RED) extends it commitment to Africa, a key coffee growing region. Starbucks currently buys coffee from 10 African countries including Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

“The collective effort in just over two weeks time reflects the spirit of Starbucks customers, even during difficult times, to create change and do something good every day,” said Michelle Gass, executive vice president, Marketing and Category. “We’re excited to create even more opportunities for our customers to do good everyday with the introduction of the (STARBUCKS) RED Card in January. Our partnership with (RED) not only helps reinforce Starbucks connection to Africa, it provides an opportunity to raise awareness with Starbucks customers of a critical issue facing the coffee growing region.”

Customers who register their (STARBUCKS) RED Card on Starbucks.com/card will become a member and also receive money-saving benefits and exclusive offers through the Starbucks Card Rewards program such as free refills on brewed coffee; free select syrups and milk options like soy milk or whip cream; and up to two consecutive hours of complimentary Wi-Fi daily at participating Starbucks in the U.S.

“RED is coming to a corner near you thanks to Starbucks,“ said Bono. “I’m very excited to be able to say that. It’s pretty mind-blowing to think that millions of people can buy RED going about their daily lives and in doing so raise millions of dollars to fight AIDS in Africa. That’s not a bad hit from your caffeine.”

Coldplay Joined By Bono For Charity Gig

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

After attending the annual Brit Awards in London last night, Coldplay raced across town to play a special charity gig with some very special guests.

The British band joined The Killers and members of U2 for a concert at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire to benefit War Child.

The concert kicked off with a loud and exquisitely played set from The Killers, who took the crowd through renditions of songs such as Spaceman and Human. Then it was Coldplay’s turn, who weaved songs from their entire back catalogue into a seamless set.

But it was the encores that raised the biggest interest. Coldplay returned to the stage to play Take That’s Back For Good with special guest Gary Barlow, and then were joined by The Killers and the one-and-only Bono for a rendition of All These Things That I’ve Done.

The exclusive gig celebrated the launch of Heroes, the new album that aims to raise money for War Child and features a series of once-in-a-lifetime collaborations between some of the best known names in the music world and up-and-coming stars – a concept that mirrors one of the intrinsic aims of War Child’s worldwide efforts in war zones across the world – to place faith in the next generation.

“In our eyes, War Child is one of the world’s most important charities, and The Killers are one of our favorite bands, so playing this concert is an absolute pleasure for us,“ said Coldplay singer Chris Martin.

Bono Faces The Real Deal In Elle Magazine

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

As a rock and roll star, Bono has written some of the most important music of our time, and now, the U2 front man has been asked by ELLE Magazine to turn a page (RED) and address “the greatest health crisis in 600 years: HIV/AIDS.”

In his one page letter, which appears in this month’s edition, Bono shares startling statistics on HIV/AIDS, including the fact that 90% of new cases occur in females aged 15-24. “I can’t get my head around that fact, let alone get it out of my head” he writes. Bono also shares details of his journey to Africa six years ago, where he witnessed the devastating effect the disease has had on the communities, including “orphans raising orphans.”

Bono also writes about the importance of (RED), its products and the pure power of consumer activism. “They have power in their pockets,” he writes, “(RED) raises money for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS—$120 million so far. That is enough to buy drugs for more than 750,000 people for a year. (RED) funds prevention and counseling programs as well as treatment, and is now the thirteenth biggest contributor to the Global Fund; it’s giving more than many countries.”

“There are the millions of men and women whose names we don’t know, but whose (RED) purchases are doing nothing less than keeping people alive,” he continues, “(RED) is not asking you to flock to the stores for the sake of it, but if you find yourselves browsing, we are asking you to choose (RED) where you can—for the sake of those who can’t ask you themselves.”

Other celebrities involved with (RED) include: Scarlett Johansson, Gisele Bundchen, Christy Turlington, Penelope Cruz, Julia Roberts, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Garner, Kanye West, Djimon Hounsou, Chris Rock and Steven Spielberg among others

Bono’s complete (RED) letter can be read here.

ELLE Magazine Goes RED For Bono

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

ELLE Magazine has teamed up with Bono, Scarlett Johansson and Gisele Bundchen in the fight against AIDS in Africa.

From mid-January to the end of February, ELLE will simultaneously feature (RED) in more than thirty editions around the world, speaking to more than 20 million readers. Each magazine will feature content provided by the celebrities in relation to the charity, including cover photos of Bundchen, a letter from Bono, and info on Johansson’s trip to Rwanda. (PRODUCT)RED consumers have already helped purchase lifesaving antiretroviral treatment for nearly 80,000 people, and the effort continues.

The issue will appear on January 17, 2009 in ELLE France and in the February issues of 30 other international editions that go on sale in mid-January (except for the UK, Japan and Quebec editions which will be dated March 2009 and go on sale at the end of January).

A special video featuring Bundchen’s cover shoot for the magazine can be found here.

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