Heroes in the struggle: Fifth anniversary

Heroes in the struggle: Fifth anniversary

On May 20, 2014, the Black AIDS Institute will celebrate its 15th anniversary in conjunction with Heroes in the Struggle (HITS) to be held at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, Calif.

Also, the drawing for the Drive Out AIDS raffle will be held for the 2014 Kia Forte, sponsored by Car Pros Kia of Carson, and a five-day/ four-night Carnival Cruise.

HITS, the Institute’s Gala Reception and Awards Presentation, is a pictorial tribute to those who have made heroic contributions in the fight against HIV/AIDS, encompassed in a night of extraordinary presentations and noted performances. Past photographers include Duane Cramer and Matthew Jordan Smith. The photographers have captured many of today’s most celebrated individuals for leading publications ranging from Essence to GQ.

Each year new Heroes are added to the exhibit. Past heroes include Coretta Scott King, human rights activist and leader (2004) and President Bill Clinton, Founder of the William J. Clinton Foundation and 42nd President of the United States (2010).

By showcasing examples of heroism from within communities of African descent, Heroes in the Struggle stirs up African Americans and others to refocus and recommit to overcoming the epidemic by generating critical conversation about HIV testing and treatment.

Executive Director and Founder Phill Wilson and the Black AIDS Institute have a mission to stop the AIDS pandemic in Black communities by engaging and mobilizing Black institutions, leaders and individuals in efforts to confront HIV.

For tickets to Heroes in the Struggle and the Drive Out AIDS raffle or for more in-formation on how to get involved, contact Gerald Garth, (213) 353-3610 ext. 100 or hits@BlackAIDS.org.

Gerald Garth is a Los Angeles-based writer, actor and accountant who works for The Black AIDS Institute.