North American actor Christopher Reeve has been awarded the Chilean Order of Bernardo O'Higgins for his support to Chilean artists who stood in opposition to Augusto Pinochet. The quadriplegic actor, famous for his role as American comic book hero 'Superman', was invited to Chile in 1987 by writer Ariel Dorfman to participate in artist driven demonstrations against the government of Augusto Pinochet. During his stay, Reeve participated in acts of protest denouncing the harassment suffered by a group of 77 artists opposing Pinochet's regime. Chilean Minister of External Relations, Alvear Solitude stated, 'it is Chile's turn to repay this valuable gesture', upon presenting the honour to Reeve in New York. The Order of Bernardo O'Higgins is issued when Chile feels a moral obligation to distinguish foreign citizens for outstanding artistic scientific, educative, commercial, humanitarian or social cooperation with their country. For further information in Spanish, CLICK HERE.