The American Task Force on Lebanon is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of prominent Americans of Lebanese heritage, who educate policymakers and the public about the importance of a robust US-Lebanon bilateral relationship. The mission and objectives of ATFL shall always be in the best interest of the United States and will promote the national unity, independence, and prosperity of a democratic and pluralistic Lebanon. ATFL will host its annual dinner on May 14 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Washington, DC.
Each year, ATFL honors outstanding American of Lebanese heritage who have enriched this country through contributions in various fields.
Mia Haddad is a Lebanese lead vocalist. With a BA in Human Nutrition and a Masters in Public Health, Mia decided to follow her passion and pursue her career in singing after she won the competition "Lebanese Singing Championship" in 2011 in Beirut and represented Lebanon abroad. As a lead vocalist, Mia's forte is pop, classic and funk. Her performances are distinguished by a unique blend of musical genres, harmoniously combining elements of fusion occidental and oriental music. Her multilingual repertoire includes performances in Arabic (Lebanese, Egyptian & Khaliji), French, English, with a touch of Italian & Spanish, enabled her to create a unique blend of fusion music shows and diverse themed night performances.
Dubbed as “a soulful and handsome young man who delivers an electrifying and thrilling performance, bringing the crowd to their feet” (An-Nahar), Amine J. Hachem is a Lebanese-American operatic and crossover tenor who has captivated audiences across the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. He has been a leading tenor in several operas and musicals, including La Traviata, Tosca, La Bohème, Carmen, I Lombardi alla Prima Crociata, Madama Butterfly, Phantom of the Opera, Evita, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Amine has also shared his talent supporting various charitable causes and service organizations worldwide, including SOS Children’s Villages, Caritas Internationalis, Red Cross, Rotary International, Lion’s Club, and St. George’s Hospital. He was the featured performer at the St. Jude Hope and Heritage Gala, 2014 premier New York fundraising event for the renowned St. Jude’s Hospital. He sang in the summer series festival (June, 2014) at the Basilica of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral, NYC. Honors were bestowed upon him the summer of 2011 with a trophy of recognition from the Lebanese Navy in gratitude for his musical performances and love of cultural heritage. Additionally, he had the privilege to sing before the President of Lebanon and the King and Queen of Jordan.
The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C., 1150 22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Issam M. Fares International Leadership Award: Mr. Elie Saab
Ray R. Irani Lifetime Achievement Award: Ms. Leila Fadel
Philip C. Habib Award for Distinguished Public Service: Senator Jeanne Shaheen