More than 10,000 attendees collectively raised nearly $2 million on May 18 at the 40th annual AIDS Walk New York, which is a fundraiser for GMHC and other AIDS service organizations.
The annual walk raised $1.91 million and featured celebrities, elected officials, and entertainers. There were performances, free HIV testing, free food, and a Paradise Garage dance party.
Jon Mallow, GMHCs new CEO, said the money raised during the event will “benefit GMHC’s services and programs for people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS.”
“GMHC believes that everyone deserves to be healthy and happy, so we provide a full spectrum of services, from HIV and STI testing to mental health care, supportive housing, food, and more, all intended to make this belief a reality for our clients and our city,” Mallow said.
The theme, “We Won’t Stop,” highlighted the enduring 40-year tradition of AIDS Walk New York. Others who joined AIDS Walk New York included The House of Miyake Mugler, Bhangra/Bollywood-style fitness teacher Sarina Jain, actor Wilson Cruz, actor/singer Javier Muñoz, the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus, and Ally Bonino, Hannah Cruz, Hawley Gould, and Monica Ramirez from the Broadway musical known as Suffs.
Out lawmakers in attendance included Councilmembers Erik Bottcher and Tiffany Cabán, State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, and Assemblymember Tony Simone. Councilmember Gale Brewer, Comptroller Brad Lander, and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams also attended.
