Russell Simmons Named PETA's Person Of The Year

Perez Hilton Filed under: Awardz > Music Minute > PETA

Russell Simmons has now joined the ranks of Bill Clinton, Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey and more as PETA's person of the year!

Ever since Simmons learned about the yogic principal of 'ahimsa,' which means "doing no harm," he has rejected the meat industry.

His outspoken public advocacy of peace and respect for all living beings, regardless of race, religion, gender or even species is what earned him the title PETA's Person of the Year 2011.

Simmons said:

"The horrible abuse of animals is the worst karmic disaster in the history of human kind. The work that PETA does to combat this catastrophe is amazing.

I'm truly humbled to be chosen as this year's Person of the Year, but the praise should go to the hundreds of thousands of volunteers that are on the ground doing the work. I accept this honor on their behalf."

PETA's Senior Vice President Lisa Lange said:

"Simmons' philosophy-that everyone should stick up for the little guy-is one that everyone can follow."

So c'mon everyone, let's follow him!

Live a life of peace and respect for everyone and everything around you!

[Image via Jeff Grossman/WENN.]