Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation (VVAF) supporters, including Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-VT for whom the award was named, will pay tribute to Harris November 12 at a benefit event at the Birchmere Music Hall in Washington, D.C.

Musical guests include Mary Chapin Carpenter, Steve Earle, Nanci Griffith, Patty Griffin, Buddy & Julie Miller, and John Prine, among others.

The VVAF is bestowing the award on Harris for her tireless efforts to focus attention on the plight of landmine survivors worldwide.

“Emmylou has used two of her greatest gifts – an extraordinary voice and unsurpassed musical talent – to tell the world we don’t need landmines,” Bobby Muller, president of VVAF said. “I can’t imagine where VVAF or the anti-landmine movement would be without her contributions.”

The Patrick J. Leahy Humanitarian Award was established by the VVAF in 1998 to recognize the individuals who, through a lifetime of commitment, reflect the ideals and ideas of Sen. Leahy, one of America’s foremost humanitarian political leaders.

“Emmylou Harris embodies humanitarian activism,” Leahy said. “Her humanitarian efforts have greatly advanced the case against landmines, raising awareness for the cause and support for its victims. She is a superstar, a global citizen and a wonderful human being. I’m proud to call her a friend.”

Harris spearheaded the creation of VVAF’s Concerts for a Landmine Free World in 1998 and has initiated many other singer/songwriters to the anti-landmine cause.

For information on how to purchase tickets to the awards event, visit vvaf.org. All proceeds from the event will support VVAF’s post-war assistance programs.