Leonardo DiCaprio has been tapped by the United Nations to be its Messenger of Peace on Climate Change, the international organization announced on Tuesday.
“It’s an honor to accept the role of U.N. Messenger of Peace on Climate Change and to support the Secretary General in his efforts to address one of the most important issues we face as a global community,” the “Inception” actor said in a statement, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Mr. DiCaprio has been asked to speak about climate change at the U.N. summit on Sept. 23.
“I feel a moral obligation to speak out at this key moment in human history — it is a moment for action,” the actor said. “How we respond to the climate crisis in the coming years will likely determine the fate of humanity and our planet.”
Other celebrities to be given the Messenger of Peace honor include Edward Norton, Michael Douglas, Charlize Theron, George Clooney and Stevie Wonder, THR reported.
A statement on the U.N. site that explains the selection process reads: “United Nations Messengers of Peace/Goodwill Ambassadors are distinguished individuals, carefully selected from the fields of art, literature, science, entertainment, sports or other fields of public life, who have agreed to help focus worldwide attention on the work of the United Nations.”
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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