Genesis Awards
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For 20 years, the Genesis Awards has paid tribute to the major news and entertainment media for producing outstanding works which raise public understanding of animal issues. This annual awards show takes place every March in Beverly Hills, California and is taped to air as a television special on Animal Planet later on in the spring.
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[edit] Beginnings
In 1986, the Genesis Awards event was launched by animal advocate and actress Gretchen Wyler, under the aegis of The Fund For Animals. Wyler came up with the idea because she strongly believed that rewarding members of the media encouraged them to spotlight more animal issues, thus increasing public awareness and compassion toward animals. The first annual event, a luncheon drawing only 140 attendees, quickly grew into a large gala averaging 800 guests.
In 1991, Wyler founded The Ark Trust, Inc., which continued to present the Genesis Awards. In 1990, it became a television special airing first on the Discovery Channel and then on Animal Planet. In August 2002, The Ark Trust joined forces with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), changing its name to The Hollywood Office of The HSUS. Wyler, as Vice President of The Hollywood Office of The HSUS, continued her role as Chairperson of the event and Executive Producer of the Genesis Awards television special until her retirement in 2006.
[edit] Winner Selection
Beginning with the first ceremony in 1986, Genesis Awards entries have been submitted by the public as well as by media professionals. Categories span television, film, print, radio, music, and the arts. The Genesis Awards Committee - via a process of submission, nomination, candidate selection, debate, and secret ballot - makes all final decisions regarding the winners. The 17 committee members have been selected because of their personal histories in working for the animals, averaging more than 15 years "in the trenches." The members include people from various animal-protection organizations and diverse walks of life, who all share a demonstrated commitment to animals.
[edit] Award Ceremony
Genesis Awards are presented annually at a star-studded ceremony drawing representatives from the media, entertainment, social, business and humane communities. The awards are bestowed by a host of celebrity presenters such as James Cromwell, Pierce Brosnan, Martin Sheen, Kelsey Grammer, Charlotte Ross, Moby, Alicia Silverstone, Bill Maher, Wendie Malick, David Hyde-Pierce, Christian Bale, Dennis Franz, Sidney Poitier, and Doris Roberts.
