New York City Pride Begins on August 12

Beginning Wednesday, August 12, Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) will present New York City Black Pride, which consists of five days of events across the five boroughs which will provide a time to reflect, celebrate and most of all, honor people of color in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Since GMHC opened our doors in 1982, we have worked closely with black and Latino communities.

"I am proud that GMHC is the presenting sponsor of New York City Black Pride. I was recently at an event where President Barack Obama released the updated National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) which includes key data that clearly indicates that people of color, specifically ages 13-24, are bearing the brunt of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in America," said GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie. "As our country continues its commitment to valuing every black life, I remain dedicated to the steadfast GMHC tradition of creating safe and affirming spaces for the black and Latino communities, especially our young people. As we celebrate New York City Black Pride, I want to challenge all New York elected officials and especially our law enforcement agencies to stand with GMHC and others in creating a city that values black lives enough to ensure we implement our plan to end AIDS by 2020."

Throughout the year, GMHC provides services, testing and prevention programs targeted to black and Latino women and men living with and affected by HIV and AIDS. One of our key programs that focuses on black and Latino LGBT individuals is GMHC's work in the House and Ball community, including our annual Latex Ball.

The House and Ballroom community, comprised predominately of black and Latino LGBT people, lost countless members in the early years of the epidemic. In 1989, GMHC and leaders from the House and Ball community came together and created the Latex Ball, which today is the largest ball in the United States.

"I am truly grateful to GMHC for being the presenting sponsor," said Lee "Soulja" Simmons, Lead Organizer of NYC Black Pride. "With GMHC's support, the events help to foster much-needed community-building among black LGBT people and their straight allies. From discussions about critical issues in our community to creating safe spaces for black LGBT youth, these events ensure that our voices are heard."