VIENNA — U.S. actress Brooke Shields has presented a 100,000 euro ($142,000) award to a Russian activist for her work with HIV-positive people at a star-studded fundraiser in Austria's capital.
Anya Sarang, CEO of the Andrey Rylkov Foundation for Health and Social Justice, received the Crystal of Hope award Saturday at the Life Ball, a flamboyant Austrian fundraiser for people with HIV and AIDS.
"She is definitely an angel," Shields said of Sarang.
The event was also attended by former U.S. President Bill Clinton, singer Janet Jackson and thousands of revelers in risque attire.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
