HARRY BELAFONTEis known worldwide for his achievements as a singer, actor and producer and for his commitment to human rights. Beginning with the American civil rights movement in the 1950's, he has established a long and distinguished record of human rights advocacy. In the early 1950s, Belafonte developed a strong relationship with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Belafonte worked tirelessly to mobilize artists in support of the civil rights movement. Mr. Belafonte spent an increasing amount of the 1970s and 1980s as a tireless humanitarian. In 1985, he again rallied the global artistic community to raise awareness of the famines, wars and droughts plaguing many African nations.

USA for Africa raised more than $60 million for this cause with "We Are the World" and Hands Across America. A longtime anti-apartheid activist, Belafonte hosted former South African President Nelson Mandela on his triumphant visit to the United States. He remains active within the South African community to this day.