Both Meryl Streep and Amal Clooney are formidable women. One is regarded as the greatest Hollywood actor of our time and the other, a passionate humanitarian and barrister. They are both celebrated across the globe for their individual talents and exceptional achievements, but mostly for their compassionate natures and personalities. Now the pair are celebrating each other, as Streep prepares to honor Clooney with the CPJ International Press Freedom Awards.
From defending journalists at the United Nations, to an impassioned speech about protecting “honest journalists” at the Global Conference for Media Freedom in London last year, Clooney has been a strong advocate for press freedom. Streep has recognized Clooney’s power too, as she shows her support for the freedom of the press.
The Oscar-winning actor will present the Lebanese barrister with the 2020 Gwen I fill Press Freedom Award at the online award ceremony being held on November 19. “In times of unprecedented uncertainty, it’s journalists who are out there, gathering the facts and trying to help us make sense of it all,” Streep said. “By asking tough questions, and pursuing the truth at any cost, they are essential workers — serving the public and protecting democracy. That’s why I’m proud to take part in this year’s International Press Freedom Awards and to continue supporting the vital work of the Committee to Protect Journalists,” she added.
The online awards ceremony will showcase the works of this year’s award winners, including Clooney’s work as counsel for many journalists that have been under threat. Clooney’s work will be presented alongside that of four journalists from Bangladesh, Iran, Nigeria, and Russia who have faced arrest or prosecution for their work.