City of Los Angeles State of California Resolution: Whereas, Sir Ian McKellen is one of the most acclaimed theatre actors of his generation, a gay-rights advocate, and champion for bringing the joys of theater, film, and literature to youth around the world; and whereas, Sir Ian has been honored with more than forty international awards for his performances on stage and screen; and whereas, Sir Ians work is diverse and ranges from Shakespeare on a London stage to James Whale on screen in Gods and Monsters; and whereas, Sir Ian addressed a million people at the 1993 March on Washington and continues as a member and volunteer for Stonewall UK which he co-founded in 1988 to lobby for gay/lesbian rights; and whereas, Sir Ians civic duties extend to the classroom, spreading the joy of theater nd literature to Los Angeles public schoolchildren; and whereas, Sir Ian continues to educate community youth through his performance as Gandalf the Grey in the recently released film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkiens Lord of the Rings; and whereas, Sir Ian will touch the lives of additional Los Angeles youth on January 19, 2002 at MOCA when he reads from the text of Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring for local children, once again making literature fun for everyone: now, therefore be it resolved, that by the adoption of this resolution, the Los Angeles City Council recognizes Sir Ian McKellen for his dedication to the children and young people of Los Angeles and commends his efforts to inspire youth to explore and enjoy literature.