SAN FRANCISCO: On Tuesday, March 14, 2000, UN Ambassador for Peace and Actor, Michael Douglas, will present Senator Alan Cranston with the W. Averell Harriman Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Cause of Peace and World Security on behalf of the Lawyers Alliance for World Security (LAWS) at a special gala dinner at the Westin St. Francis beginning at 6:30 pm. Distinguished guests include Senator Barbara Boxer, Ambassador Thomas Graham, and Ambassador Richard Butler. Special guest appearance by Actor Robin Williams.

The annual Harriman Award will recognize the Senator's life-long dedication to peace and to the reduction and eventual elimination of nuclear weapons Previous recipients include General Lee Butler, Ambassador Richard Butler, and Robert McNamara.

During his 24-year Senate career, Senator Cranston had a hand in shaping and guiding through the Senate many of the most important legislative measures that came up for consideration. Especially noteworthy were his efforts for world peace, specifically his efforts to end the Vietnam War and to improve relations with the Soviet Union. Senator Cranston was a devout supporter of arms reductions and nuclear arms control, helping to lead Senate consideration of the SALT II and START treaties, and in efforts to promote a Middle East peace based on the security of Israel.

Since leaving public office, Senator Cranston has been a leader of worldwide efforts to reduce, marginalise, and ultimately abolish nuclear weapons. Senator Cranston is the founder and President of the Global Security Institute, which undertakes to lead citizens and policymakers to work toward the worldwide abolition of nuclear weapons. Senator Cranston explains: "Shortly after the bombing of Hiroshima, I was warned by Albert Einstein that nuclear weapons could devastate all life on the planet. I have since dedicated my life to abolishing nuclear weapons."

The Lawyers Alliance for World Security advocates prudent and practical policies designed to reduce the dangers posed by nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. LAWS seeks to promote policies that would bolster the nuclear non-proliferation regime, promote nuclear arms control and disarmament, and to encourage the development of the rule of law.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Global Security Institute and LAWS.