Russell Simmons named PETA's 'Person of the Year'

Russell Simmons has been chosen as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)'s 'Person of the Year' for 2011.

The rap mogul is being honoured for his criticism of the meat industry and his campaign to promote peace and respect around the globe.

Simmons said of the award: "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 honour on their behalf."

Ellen DeGeneres, former US President Bill Clinton and Project Runway stylist Tim Gunn have previously received the honour from PETA.

In November, Simmons joined celebrities Natalie Portman, Leona Lewis, Sir Paul McCartney, Steve-O and others to appear on PETA's limited edition postal stamps.

PETA, which has over 2 million members, was founded in 1980 to protect the rights of animals.

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