GMHC to Honor Out 'Hamilton' Star Javier Muñoz

New York, New York--Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) will honor Javier Mu�oz, Broadway star in the lead role in "Hamilton: An American Musical," with the 2016 Howard Ashman Award, for his activism in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Mu�oz will receive the award at the 2016 Howard Ashman Award & Cabaret, benefiting GMHC on Monday, September 19 at Joe's Pub (425 Lafayette Street).

In 2002, Mu�oz was diagnosed with HIV and he continues to speak out about his status, particularly in the media, because of the stigma directed at people living with HIV/AIDS. Javier is also a recent survivor of cancer. Proceeds from the cabaret will support GMHC's programs, services, and advocacy, which benefit roughly 10,000 clients every year.

The Howard Ashman Award is named after the Oscar and Grammy-winning lyricist of "Beauty and the Beast," "The Little Mermaid," and "Aladdin" who passed away due to AIDS-related complications in 1991.

"I am truly moved by the honor from GMHC," said Javier Mu�oz. "As a gay man living with HIV, I know how important treatment and support are in order to have a healthy life. That's why I am committed to using my voice to raise awareness about HIV-related stigma and other barriers that block people from seeking care. GMHC's life-sustaining services and programs are vital to all of us."

"We applaud Javier Mu�oz's success on Broadway and are thankful for his openness about being HIV-positive," said GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie. "We know that the consequences of stigma and discrimination are far-reaching for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Every day at GMHC, we see clients who have been shunned by family and friends, others who have faced poor treatment while accessing services in their communities, and some struggle with mental health and substance abuse issues. Stigma and discrimination undermine HIV prevention efforts by making people afraid to seek prevention, testing, and care. In order for us to end the AIDS epidemic, we must end stigma. For over 30 years, members of the Broadway community have been some of our most devoted allies, advocates and fundraisers in this fight. The GMHC family is honored to celebrate and thank Javier with this year's Howard Ashman Award."

Tickets start at $150.00. To purchase tickets, program ads, and sponsorship opportunities, or to make a donation in honor of Javier Mu�oz, visit www.gmhc.org