Award in 2007 for his best-selling book ‘God is not Great‘ which contends that organized religion is “the main source of hatred in the world.”

Hitchens was known for his confrontational style which made him a widely controversial figure in the western hemisphere. He routinely took aim at divisive topics such as religion, war, world figures and international politics.

Christopher Hitchens’ widow Carol Blue Hitchens will accept the award on his behalf. The monetary prize will be given to two charitable organizations, 826 National who encourage and support literacy among under-resourced youth, and PEN who advocate and protect the rights of writers and free expression.

PUSSY RIOT

On September 21, 2012, at a special ceremony in NYC, the Russian feminist punk rock band, were acknowledged for standing firm in their belief forof numerous world activists and human rights groups who have staged protests across the globe.

Yoko Ono with the backing of Amnesty International, awarded the grant to Pussy Riot in New York City on 21st September 2012 in the hope that they will be released as soon as possible.

Yoko Ono and Amnesty International Executive Director Suzanne Nossel presented the LennonOno Grant for Peace to Pyotr Verzilov, husband of Nadia Tolokonnikova, one of the three imprisoned members of Pussy Riot.(Sept. 21, 2012)

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER

The annual lighting of IMAGINE PEACE TOWER will take place in the evening at 8pm local time on the island of Viðey in Reykjavik, Icealand.

Yoko Ono invites people all over the world to join her in spirit when she lights IMAGINE PEACE TOWER in honour of all